What I'm really implying is don't waste too much time getting knowledge,start implementing it from day 1.
Well I know for a fact that some of these books have already been pirated and can be found online. I have downloaded a few myself and buying the rest.
And no, to be honest, I havent found a "free" comprehensive or academic approach to teaching blockchain tech to beginners. I plan on changing that. That is happening but in the meanwhile I too must understand some of it, as it stands right now I understand very little. Whatever path I choose to follow might also help someone else in my position. That is why I am documenting the books and resources here.
Also, "free" may never happen out there and I do not know much to be able to 'teach' people and those that do might not be interested at all. BUT an academic approach will happen and is probably already in the works somewhere, until that 'free' happens, I will do my best to distribute the information that already exists.