The songs in this book represent a sampling of folk and popular Yiddish songs. Some appear in very rare and inaccessible collections; and some were never before published. Folk songs comprise about 1/3 of this volume and were selected mainly on the basis of popularity and sometimes for their historic significance. The selection here was made not only on the basis of personal preference, but in the knowledge they are favorites of many who sing these songs. Most of the songs represent the repertoire that was sung at summer camps, May 1st demonstrations and at social gatherings.

Lyrics are written in Yiddish and transliteration. The melody line is given with guitar chords. There is also a brief English translation of the song s meaning.