I think what hurts people the most is that it’s all due right up front when school starts in one lump sum.
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What would happen if the parents bought the books over the Internet for half or a third of the price and refused to pay the rental?
I have never heard of anyone being able to do that to be honest, it certainly isn’t an option that is offered to anyone. I believe that in the lower grades it also goes for things like art supplies if I’m not mistaken. They call it a “book rental fee” but I really don’t think the money is all being used for that myself.