Free Books? Say No More!
So, I decided to run a five-day free promo on Amazon for all 100 of my books (March 5th–9th, 2025). And guess what? Over 1,000 downloads/sales came pouring in like hungry kids at a free pizza buffet.
Did I blast this all over social media? Nope. Did I flood my email list with “Hurry! Limited Time Offer!” messages? Not really. Even if I did, the numbers would likely be the same, anyway.
The lesson? Humans love free stuff. This isn’t just a South Sudan thing or an Africa thing—it’s a universal truth. If people grabbed my books like this every single day, I'd be sipping fresh coconut water on a private island by now.
But they don’t.
And you know what? That’s fine. I write because I have something to share, not just to chase sales. One day, I’ll return to the great unknown, but my words? My impact? They’ll still be here, whispering wisdom into the minds of readers long after I’m gone.
Sure, maybe only 1/4 of those who download will actually read. Maybe just 1% of those will take action. But money disappears—true influence lasts.
That’s my legacy.
That’s my purpose.
That’s my way of planting seeds that grow into something bigger.
Now, if only I could get Amazon to run paid promos for me… 🤔
Recent Comments
12
You are absolutely right, John. People love free stuff. And since there is now so much free stuff on the internet, people feel even more hard-done-by if they actually have to pay for information.
As affiliate marketers, I think it's important to get the balance right of offering good information, including well-researched products, and then recommend those alongside the free information and hope that people will click on your link and buy something, even if it's not the product you have recommended. At least you have piqued their interest and they've gone to find something that is exactly what they need.
Wishing you lots of success.
Isabella
Hi John,
Thank you for sharing this update.
Money is important, but in my own humble opinion, the legacy we leave behind and the impact we make in the lives of others are invaluable.
Just like you siad; LEGACY.
Don't worry, I bleieve that, with time, the money will follow, especially since the awareness and all the farmeworks, as taught by WA, are already in place.
Wishing you a blessed day.
Best regards,
Makinde
See more comments
Any win is a win John!! Maybe not what you wanted right now but keep up the great work and who knows in the future my friend! :-)
Yeah, I agree, which let me to share the event immediately. 1,002 sales are a lot.
John
Can't disagree with you there my friend... all the very best moving forward! :-)
Yes, and sales are now rolling in for the first time ever in 13 years after promo. I can see for the last three days there is a sale per day for print versions, and it has doubled today!
Excellent news John! May the snowball effect continue to roll for you my friend! :-)
Thanks. It has stopped rolling after three days again. No worries, just wanted to share it.
John
Up's and downs buddy..... that's the business!