An investigation of children's books reveals that a few classic examples of minority characterization are found in children's books written prior to and at the turn of the century. A survey of materials shows that most bibliographies are not annotated; that those which are annotated usually tell the plot and theme, omitting mention of the characters' culture; and that most of the bibliographies, with or without annotations, concentrate on only one minority or mix them on the usual alphabetical basis. Investigation further reveals that: characterization of the Negro and Indian have changed since World War II; the number of books populated with minority characters as the major character(s) has multiplied in recent years; publishers and libraries offer large numbers of titles for only two of the six minorities--African American and American Indian; and while a few outstanding people of Mexican heritage are represented, none are found for Americans of Puerto Rican, Chinese, or Japanese descent. An appendix includes a list of materials for the minority child. (Author/SW)