Question for the authors

[Micknmin]

A friend of mine wrote a book that he is currently selling on Amazon for $1.99.  He decided to rewrite certain sections in the book (based on suggestions from friends) and then offer it for free.  When he tried to set it up for free, it came back with a message telling him that he had to charge something for it.  Does anyone know why he can't sell his book for free when there are plenty of other books online that are?

[sierra09]

With Kindle, their set-up won't allow you to offer the book for free. Nothing below .99 I believe the last time I looked. It's how Amazon works. Those other places that allow you to offer it for free don't have the guidelines like Amazon does.

[Ricky Sides]

As I understand the system, publishing companies can negotiate deals with Amazon in which books they publish can be sold free in the Kindle store. This helps the publishers to generate publicity for their authors which translates into more paperback sales. Indie authors do not have the clout to make such arrangements with Amazon.

That is my understanding of the system. If I am wrong then someone will correct me. I learned this a few months back in a discussion thread on Amazon.

sincerely,
Ricky

[MariaESchneider]

If he wants to make it "Free" for those that purchased an earlier copy, he can do so by making the offer on his website (readers can contact him to get an updated copy.)  But you are correct--he cannot set the price to free on Amazon.  Amazon can choose to discount a book or larger publishers can make promotional arrangements, but small or individual authors have to follow the pricing rules!

Maria

[Micknmin]

Thanks for the info.  It makes a lot of sense.  I'll let him know tomorrow.

[daveconifer]

Yeah, it wouldn't be worthwhile (or fair) to Amazon.  They have a minimal cost for every transaction.  If the minimum charge is .99 they probably break even.