16 Best Ways To Get Paid To Read Books in 2024
If you love reading books and wish you could make money doing it, you’re in luck! There are actually plenty of opportunities to get paid for reading books, whether you’re reviewing them, narrating audiobooks, or even working in the publishing industry. Let’s break down some of the best ways you can turn your passion for books into a source of income.
1. Online Book Club
Online Book Club is a platform where you can get paid to review books. When you start, you’ll receive a free book to review. Once you’ve completed your first review, you become eligible for paid opportunities. The amount you can earn ranges from $5 to $60 per book, depending on the book and the review. This platform is a good starting point if you’re looking to make some extra money while enjoying your reading habit.
2. Kirkus Reviews
Kirkus Reviews is well-known for its critical and professional book reviews. They are always on the lookout for reviewers who can write insightful 350-word reviews. You’ll have two weeks to complete your review after being assigned a book. This platform offers a variety of genres, so you can find something that matches your interests. While Kirkus doesn’t publicly state its pay rate, it’s known for being a reliable source of income for book reviewers.
3. UpWork
UpWork is a freelancing platform where you can create a profile and list your services as a book reviewer. Authors and publishers looking for honest and thorough reviews can hire you directly. The beauty of UpWork is that you set your own rates, giving you the flexibility to charge anywhere from $15 to $75 per hour. This platform is ideal for those who want to turn book reviewing into a more regular gig.
4. The US Review of Books
The US Review of Books offers opportunities for freelance writers to review books. These reviews typically range from 250 to 300 words and focus on summarizing the book and offering insights. To get started, you’ll need to submit a resume, sample work, and references. The US Review of Books is a great platform if you have some experience in writing and want to get paid for your reviews.
5. Reedsy
Reedsy Discovery is a platform where you can review books before they’re published. Authors submit their manuscripts to Reedsy, and you get paid by readers who appreciate your reviews. The payment structure is tip-based, with readers tipping you $1, $3, or $5. While this may not sound like much, it can add up if you’re consistent and build a following.
6. Booklist
Booklist Publications is associated with the American Library Association and focuses on guiding libraries in their book purchases. As a freelance reviewer, you’ll write short reviews (150 to 175 words) that describe the plot and suggest the ideal audience for each book. Booklist pays $15 per review, and you’ll be paid once the review is published. This is a great way to get paid for reading books that are likely to end up in libraries.
7. BookBrowse
BookBrowse allows you to apply to become a book reviewer for various genres, including young adult, nonfiction, and graphic novels. As a reviewer, you’ll typically write one review per month, making it a low-commitment way to earn some extra money. BookBrowse is a good option if you enjoy reading a wide range of genres and want a steady, but not overwhelming, stream of review opportunities.
8. Women’s Review of Books
Women’s Review of Books is a print publication that pays for reviews of books, poetry, and more. This platform is particularly focused on works by women and is affiliated with the Wellesley Centers for Women. If you’re passionate about women’s literature and want to contribute to a respected publication, this could be a great fit for you.
9. Publishers Weekly
Publishers Weekly is a well-known magazine in the publishing industry, and they accept book reviews from freelance writers. If you have a knack for writing concise and insightful reviews, this could be a good platform to showcase your skills and get paid for your efforts.
10. New Pages
New Pages is a site that features short, substance-filled reviews of books and literary magazines. They look for concise reviews that are around 200 words long. This platform is ideal if you’re skilled at writing brief, impactful reviews and want to explore a variety of literary works.
11. Become a Book Proofreader
If you have an eye for detail and enjoy spotting grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors, proofreading could be a perfect job for you. As a proofreader, you’ll get paid to read books before they’re published, ensuring they’re free from errors. This is a flexible, work-from-home job that can be done with just a laptop and internet connection. Proofreading jobs can range from working with self-publishing authors to large publishing houses, offering a wide variety of opportunities.
12. Read Aloud for Audiobooks
Love the sound of your own voice? Consider becoming a narrator for audiobooks. With the rise in popularity of audiobooks, there’s a growing demand for voice-over actors to bring these books to life. Platforms like ACX by Audible allow you to audition for audiobook projects, and you can get paid either by the hour or through a royalty share agreement. This is a fun and creative way to get paid for reading books.
13. Start a Book Review Blog
Starting a blog where you review books can be a rewarding way to get paid for reading. You can review books that interest you and earn money through affiliate links, where you get a commission every time someone buys a book through your recommendation. Over time, as your blog grows, you could also attract sponsorships and advertising revenue, turning your passion for reading into a profitable side hustle.
14. Get Paid to Translate Books
If you’re fluent in another language, translating books could be a lucrative opportunity. Many authors and publishers are looking to expand their audience by having their books translated into different languages. You can find translation jobs on platforms like UpWork, Fiverr, and Babelcube. Whether you work as a freelancer or find a full-time job in translation, this is a great way to combine your language skills with your love of reading.
15. Write Your Own Books
If you’re creative and have a story to tell, writing your own books can be a fulfilling and profitable endeavor. Whether you write fiction, non-fiction, or even romance novels, self-publishing through platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing allows you to reach a global audience. With the potential to earn passive income from book sales, writing can turn your passion for books into a full-time career.
16. Find a Full-Time Career in Publishing
The publishing industry offers a variety of careers where reading books is part of the job. Positions like book editor, literary agent, or book publicist allow you to work closely with books throughout the publishing process. These roles often require a degree in English, communications, or a related field, but they offer the chance to immerse yourself in the world of books full-time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Paid to Read Books
Can I Really Earn Money by Reading Books?
Yes, there are several legitimate ways to get paid for reading books, whether it’s through reviewing, proofreading, or even narrating audiobooks. While some opportunities may only provide a modest income, others can lead to full-time careers.
How Much Can I Earn?
Earnings vary widely depending on the type of work and the platform. For example, you might earn $5 to $60 per book review, or hundreds to thousands of dollars for narrating an audiobook. Writing your own books or starting a successful book blog can also lead to significant income.
Is It Possible to Make a Living from Reading Books?
Yes, some people do make a living from reading books, especially those who work in the publishing industry, write their own books, or have built successful book review blogs. However, many book-related jobs are part-time or freelance, making them a great option for side income.
Can I Get Paid to Read Books Aloud?
Absolutely! Audiobook narration is a growing field, and platforms like ACX allow you to audition for projects. You can get paid per hour or through royalty sharing, making it a flexible and potentially lucrative option.
Final Thoughts
Getting paid to read books is not just a dream—it’s a reality for many. Whether you’re looking for a full-time career or just a way to make some extra money on the side, there’s likely a book-related job out there that fits your interests and skills. From reviewing books to narrating audiobooks, the possibilities are endless. So why not turn your passion for reading into a source of income?
