The Scholastic Book Fair, a hallmark of the public education experience, has become synonymous with more than just books. While the main draw for young readers may be the wide array of literature, the fair’s selection of knickknacks, pens, pencils, erasers, and notepads has diverted the attention of many. Parents often find their children returning home with overpriced school supplies instead of books, prompting some to question whether the fair is truly fostering literacy or simply exploiting the impulsive nature of young shoppers.