This book teaches the techniques and musical pieces for flatpicking traditional rags and polkas on the guitar. Steve Kaufman, a renowned flatpicking guitarist, presents a collection of tunes that are staples in American folk and bluegrass music. The book focuses on the specific stylistic nuances required to accurately and expressively perform these lively genres, offering guidance on chord voicings, picking patterns, and rhythmic interpretation.

This instructional book is likely regarded as a valuable resource for intermediate to advanced guitarists seeking to expand their repertoire and technical skills in American folk and bluegrass music. Its focus on specific genres like rags and polkas suggests a targeted approach that appeals to musicians interested in authentic performance practices. The author's established reputation in the flatpicking community further lends credibility to the instructional content.