The United States Military Library Service program officially adopted the first edition of, A Ballad of America, published by Bantam Books in 1966.
“For years (the Scotts have) been using folk songs in the classroom to show children what a wonderfully diverse country we have, and to draw them in, heart and soul to its subtleties and complexities. Go through this book slowly! ... It will be a classic for forty years.”
“This is a must-have volume for teachers, and a good all-around guide to American music for everyone.”
“ ... a very impressive work, visually attractive, with a beautiful selection of folksongs to use in conjunction with the study of history. Congratulations on your fine accomplishment!”
“Each song, with its supporting material, stands alone as a lesson. ... Supporting material explains the historical context of the musical selections...”
“A Ballad of America is adaptable to all age groups. For young children, there are songs appropriate for holidays, such as Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and Patriots Day. The richness of the supporting material will benefit older students as they engage in the study of history.”
“I like what you’ve done with your collection of folksongs, especially the chapter organization and the various introductions to the parts, chapters, and to the songs themselves. All will be especially useful to teachers and the other readers.”
“... well executed overall... The approach, music, narrative, and visuals are sound and useful. They tell a vivid and engaging story and there is a place for such a work within the primary and secondary curriculum.”