Throughout the history of the United States, children and the concept of childhood itself have always been highly politicized. Today we explore how childhood in America has been manipulated over the years, and how the origins of many America's most beloved children's songs, toys, books, and movies are not nearly as innocent as we may remember.

On today's program we explore the literary genre of the Memoir and the brave souls who excavate the depths of their solitary paths and document their trips, tumbles and triumphs.  Journalist David Tereshchuk talks with 3 critically acclaimed memoirists: Malachy McCourt, author of A Monk Swimming, Mary Karr, author of Lit and Sir Harold Evans, author of My Paper Chase.

As the 2008 election year progresses, it should be fascinating to observe if the conservative agenda is compatible with Americans’ desire for equality and progress. Part 2 of our interview with author Greg Anrig.