Arguing that children's books play a significant part in transmitting a society's culture to children, this Digest discusses how gender roles are portrayed in children's books. It begins by discussing how the genders are portrayed in children's literature, and then addresses the question of why gender-representation in children's literature is significant. The Digest also discusses what teachers should keep in mind while selecting children's books, and how teachers can use children's literature to promote gender equity. Contains 8 references. (RS)