The purpose of this study was to compare characteristics desired by college English teachers in a composition handbook with the characteristics actually found in those recently published in order to help teachers in the selection of this resource. Data were collected through a questionnaire sent to 200 members (170 responded) of the Conference on College Composition and Communication and through a panel's analysis of physical and textual characteristics and subject matter coverage in 20 recently published handbooks. The two groups of data were then compared, revealing that (1) Regarding physical characteristics, teachers wanted an inexpensive, concise handbook with exercises, an instructor's manual, and a workbook. None of the recently published handbooks fulfilled all of these requirements. (2) Regarding textual characteristics, teachers stated many preferences regarding spacing, structure, nonbiased sex and racial content, and style. Only 7 of the 20 handbooks were rated as satisfactory on every item. (3) For subject matter, teachers wanted a handbook that treats grammar, usage, punctuation, mechanics, words, sentences, and paragraphs with both breadth and depth. No handbook was judged satisfactory in its treatment of every one of these subject areas. (CC)