This study was performed to answer the specific question: To what extent do junior novels (works of fiction written for the adolescent reader) with major Negro characters possess recognized literary qualities? Since the established purpose of the junior novel is to interest adolescents in reading and literature, those junior novels with major Negro characters that had been widely read by teenagers were selected as the ones most worthy of study. A sample of 30 books recommended by teachers and librarians were chosen for study. Literary quality was examined by means of an extensive list of critical questions based on an extensive review of critical writings about the novel. The junior novels were evaluated, and a rating from a low of one to a high of five was assigned to each book for a number of criteria grouped under seven headings: Definition, Unity, Plot, Characterization, Dialogue, Setting and Style. The examination of the novels revealed that they varied in quality from excellent to poor, both in general and within each of the critical aspects of the novels. The original question concerning the literary quality of these novels was answered with a qualified "yes." Some of the novels are consistently excellent. If a genre can be judged by the best works within it, then the junior novel with major Negro characters can be said to possess a very high degree of literary quality. (Author/CK)