Describes a vigorous folk tradition that long has been a rite of passage in this country for children and adolescents.  Suggests developmental reasons 1,400 songs appeal to youngsters: biological, linguistic, and intellectual.  Also looks at the values and hopes expressed in lyrics that appeal to teenagers, especially young women.  65 historic photographs.  19 in-depth studies of songs, some well known like "Kookaburra" and "Kumbaya."  Others like "Flicker of a Camp Fire" and "Skyball Paint" are known only in camps.