Fred Christy and Frank Carney discuss life, family, youth, and demographics in Chicago. Includes Studs Terkel interviewing a group of teenagers who call themselves the D.J.'s. about their life and ambitions.

Interviewing Frank Carney, Susie Gelaga, Linda (daughter-in-law), Molly (daughter), and Fred Christy. They discuss the youth in Chicago, their own life experiences, and wants.

Discussing the book "Margaret Mead and Samoa the making and unmaking of an anthropological myth" with the author Derek Freeman.

Studs discusses the book, "Our Kindly Parent--The State," and interviewing the author Patrick Murphy. They discuss the inadequate juvenile justice and reform system extensively. [includes an excerpt from interview with Lisa Richette, author of "Throw away children" 1925149-3-1 and -3-2].

Discussing the making of film documentaries with Fred Wiseman, especially his film, "Juvenile Court." Includes excerpts of the sound track from a juvenile detention center in Memphis, Tennessee.

John Peter Jones discusses English youth, the working class, and his book, "The Feather Pluckers."

Interviewing author and educator Bill Ayers.

Interviewing author Patricia Bosworth.

Terkel wraps up his discussion with Frank Norman. Norman gives his opinion on present conditions in prisons and orphanages. He opens up about his relationship with his daughter and a family he has never met.

Discussing the book "Manchild in the Promised Land" with Claude Brown. Brown also discusses growing up in Harlem, New York as an African American man. Includes a clip of a man speaking from the county jail. Includes a song sung by Mahalia Jackson. Includes a clip of children singing.

Interviewing author and educator Bill Ayers. Ayers is Professor of Education and University Scholar at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Discussing the book "Weeping in the playtime of others" with the author Ken Wooden.