Now here's a pretty scam:

[struggle4progress]

I want a book on technical computing topic XYZ. I look and look. Finally, I find such a book online from a national chain: short and expensive but I want to learn about the topic, so I order it anyway

It comes. I open it

And what is it? It is simply a compilation of wikipedia pages. It's not remotely useful: it isn't even well-organized

No problem. The invoice says I can return it within 14 days if not satisfied, and suggests I return it to the local store after checking their return policy. So I'll return it

I call the local store. They want the ISBN number. I provide it

No, I can't return it to the local store: I have to mail it back. Why? Because apparently it's "print on demand"

So I'll return it but I'll be out $5 or $6 for mailing



x(

[Curmudgeoness]

1. Bastards! I guess if it was expensive, the postage is not a big deal,

but this run-around really sucks. I would now worry whether they will "never receive it". I know I am behind the times, but this is one reason I am very leery of buying things online. Hope this doesn't get uglier for you.

[struggle4progress]

2. I'll insure and get delivery confirmation but it's a pain

[Angry Dragon]

3. I use Alibris books to order

http://www.alibris.com/

many different dealers

[whistler162]

4. Alibris through Fatwallet.com and get 4% back

on a purchase, eventually.

http://www.fatwallet.com

[struggle4progress]

5. I've used Alibris. And BTW they sell this useless POS, though that's not

where I found it