Get Paid to Read Books – Beginners Guide
Are you looking to make a few extra bucks every month living from your home? Well, there are many side hustles we have over here on our website. Today, we are discussing an interesting side hustle; get paid to read books.
Yes, you heard it right.
Few book publications and online portals are looking for someone like you to provide them with a review of their publications.
You might be thinking can I do it? Is it that simple to earn by reading books? Well, it is indeed that simple. You can earn money by reading books from the comfort of your home and writing a genuine review of the books.
The process is simple. But, now you might be wondering where do I start?
If you are interested in this side hustle, we are here to help you get started with how to start reading books and get paid. To do that I have provided a list of 9 companies that are offering this opportunity. You can just start with them. Let’s get started.
9 Sites You Can Use to Get Paid to Read Books
1. Online book club
Online Book Club offers an amazing opportunity for book enthusiasts to earn extra income by sharing their honest opinions on books.
Unlike dubious online schemes, there are no hidden fees or unrealistic earnings on this site.
If you are new to this platform, you’ll receive your first book for free to review, and after that, you’ll become eligible for paid review opportunities.
The platform emphasizes honesty, ensuring reviewers are compensated for their genuine feedback rather than pressured to give positive reviews.
Payout Range: $5 to $60 per review
Difficulty level: Low
2. Kirkus
Kirkus Media hires experienced book reviewers to assess English and Spanish-language books for Kirkus Indie, a section focused on self-published authors.
Reviewers should follow Kirkus’ high standards, writing around 350-word reviews within two weeks of receiving a book.
They have various genres and formats, including digital, hardcover, and paperback books.
This freelance job offers flexibility, allowing reviewers to work remotely on a project basis.
Applicants should highlight their reviewing skills and send their resumes and writing samples to Kirkus Indie Editor David Rapp at Drapp@kirkus.com.
Pay Range: $50-$100 per Review
Difficulty level: Medium
3. Reedsy
Reedsy Discovery is a premier platform for indie book enthusiasts, offering early access to self-published titles.
You can browse hundreds of new stories, connect with authors, and receive tips for their reviews.
The application process is simple and once accepted, reviewers can start reading immediately. Learn more about this exciting opportunity on their website.
Pay Range: $1-$5
Difficulty level: Low
How to Apply for the Reedsy platform:
Highlight Your Passion: Show your enthusiasm for books and reviewing in your application. Mention why you love reading and sharing your thoughts with others.
Demonstrate Your Experience: Provide examples of your previous reviews, whether they’re on a blog, social media, or other platforms. This demonstrates your ability to analyze and critique books effectively.
Showcase Your Writing Skills: Your application is your chance to showcase your writing abilities. Make sure your writing is clear, concise, and engaging to demonstrate your ability to write compelling reviews.
Complete Your Profile: Take the time to fill out your profile thoroughly. Include information about your reading preferences, previous reviews, and any other relevant details that will help authors and readers get to know you better.
Emphasize Professionalism: Reedsy values professionalism, so make sure your application and profile reflect this. Use proper grammar and spelling, and professionally present yourself.
Express Interest in Discovery: Demonstrate your interest in helping authors launch their books on Discovery. Highlight your willingness to read and review books before they are published, and explain how you can contribute to the platform.
Be Open to Feedback: Show that you’re open to feedback and willing to improve as a reviewer. This demonstrates your commitment to your craft and your willingness to grow as a reviewer.
Highlight Your Brand: If you have an existing blog or social media presence, mention how Discovery can complement your existing brand and help you reach a wider audience of bookish fans.
Express Gratitude for Rewards: Show appreciation for the opportunity to earn rewards through reader donations. Express gratitude for any support you receive from readers, and emphasize how these contributions can help you continue your passion for reading and reviewing.
Submit a Thoughtful Application: Take the time to craft a thoughtful and personalized application. Tailor your application to Reedsy’s specific requirements and values, and make sure to follow any instructions provided in the application process.
4. Book Browse
BookBrowse offers an exciting opportunity for book reviewers to get paid for their expertise and passion for literature.
You are expected to maintain a high standard of writing, comparable to the quality of reviews and articles already featured on the website.
You must provide sample reviews of at least 300 words to demonstrate your abilities.
BookBrowse reviews a wide range of books, including adult fiction and nonfiction, as well as some titles for young adults.
You are tasked with not only evaluating the enjoyment level of the book but also providing insights that deepen readers’ understanding of the world.
In addition to reviews, reviewers are expected to write “beyond the book” articles for each book they review.
You can typically contribute about one review per month and receive a byline along with a modest payment for your work.
While most of their reviewers are based in the USA, BookBrowse welcomes reviewers from overseas. However, if you reside outside the US, you must be comfortable reading ebooks, as print copies may not be available for you.
Overall, BookBrowse offers a rewarding opportunity for reviewers to engage with literature, share their insights, and earn income doing what they love.
Pay Range: $$
Difficulty level: High
5. Booklist Online
This website provides an earning opportunity for reviewers by allowing them to get paid for their expertise in evaluating books.
Professional Publishers Weekly reviewers carefully assess each book, providing detailed feedback that can assist in marketing efforts.
Reviewers earn compensation for their work, with the potential for reviews to be syndicated to various data services and e-retailers, enhancing the book’s visibility and credibility.
Additionally, approved BookLife Reviews are featured in Publishers Weekly, further expanding exposure for both the reviewer and the book being reviewed.
Reviewers interested in earning through BookLife Reviews can apply to become professional reviewers for the platform.
Once accepted, they can participate in reviewing books submitted by independent publishers, receiving compensation for each review completed.
The process involves submitting the title through PW’s GalleyTracker site, with reviewers receiving payment upon completion and approval of the review.
With a focus on quality and professionalism, BookLife Reviews offers a rewarding opportunity for reviewers to contribute to the literary community while earning income for their efforts.
Pay Range: $$
Difficulty level: ***
6. U.S. Review of Books
This is yet another great platform for you to get paid to read books. This platform provides a large selection of books you can choose from. They pay bi-monthly schedule.
The only thing is that they don’t disclose the rates to read the books. But, I could see that there is a lot of potential if you are seriously considering these jobs. Overall, you will be earning a decent amount from working from your home.
Pay Range: $$
Difficulty level: Medium
7. Writerful blocks
Writerful Books invites book lovers to share genuine recommendations across various genres.
Unlike AI-generated reviews, they prioritize honest opinions from real readers who value good books.
From chick-lit to thrillers, our platform covers diverse genres, ensuring there’s something for every reader.
Apply now to share your thoughts and help others discover their next favorite read!
Pay Range: $$
Difficulty level: Low
8. Words rated
Update: Currently not taking any new applications.
Words rated provides an opportunity for passionate readers to join as Bibliophiles-at-large, offering $200 for every book read and analyzed. In this role, you will be responsible for reading books provided by WordsRated and taking detailed notes on specific aspects such as character demographics, locations, references, and linguistic elements. This data was then utilized to create unique, data-driven studies and statistics about books.
You should be aged 18 or over, with a passion for reading and a desire for freedom and flexibility in work.
As a remote company, WordsRated offered the opportunity to work from anywhere with a stable internet connection and high proficiency in English.
Additionally, they sought volunteer survey participants interested in contributing to surveys about reading, books, and related topics.
WordsRated is a non-commercial organization dedicated to discovering insightful data about books, literature, and the publishing industry.
Their team is 100% remote, with employees located around the world, sharing a passion for books and data.
While applications are currently closed, interested individuals can stay updated on future hiring opportunities through their website.
Pay Range: $$
Difficulty level: Medium
9. Critique Partner
A critique partner, often referred to as a CP, is a fellow writer who provides feedback on your work. To find the right critique partner, explore online writers’ groups, social media, writer websites, and job boards.
While critique partners typically exchange feedback for free, if you’re an experienced writer, others may be willing to pay for your expertise when reviewing their work. This compensation acknowledges the value of your insights and fosters a mutually beneficial relationship between writers.
Pay Range: $$
Difficulty level: Medium
10. Women’s Review of Books
Women’s Review of Books, a longstanding print publication affiliated with Wellesley Centers for Women, offers an opportunity for experienced book reviewers to contribute to its esteemed platform.
Celebrating feminist perspectives, this magazine has been in publication for 36 years and is actively seeking new reviewers to join its ranks.
Reviewers for Women’s Review of Books are expected to approach their work with a commitment to advancing action and consciousness.
Typically, contributors have backgrounds in academia, journalism, or book reviewing, bringing years of experience to their analyses.
To pitch a review to Women’s Review of Books, you can submit a quick proposal via email.
This presents a chance for seasoned reviewers to share their insights on diverse literary works while engaging with feminist discourse.
Pay Range: $100 per review
Difficulty level: Medium
Official Website:
Women’s Review of Books – Current Issue – Wellesley Centers for Women (wcwonline.org)
11. New Pages
New Pages offer an opportunity for reviewers interested in quick flash book reviews.
Reviews typically range between 100 and 200 words and cover recent literary magazines or books.
As an Internet portal to small presses, independent publishers, bookstores, and literary magazines, New Pages values reviewers who appreciate works from small presses or lesser-known magazines.
If you’re interested in becoming a reviewer, check out their book review archive to see if your style matches their preferences.
Pay Range: $$
Difficulty level: Low
FAQs about Get Paid to Read Books
Can I earn by reading books?
Yes, you can earn money by reading books through various platforms that offer paid book reviewing opportunities.
What company will pay you $200 for reading books?
The website Words Rated claims to give $200 for reading their books.
How do I get started with getting paid to read books?
A. To get started, research reputable platforms that offer paid book reviewing opportunities. Look for platforms like OnlineBookClub.org, Kirkus Media, and BookLife Reviews, and review their application processes to see if you meet their criteria.
Q. How much can I earn by getting paid to read books?
A. Earnings vary depending on the platform and the complexity of the books you review. Some platforms offer a flat fee per review, or compensation based on book length and reviewer experience.
Q. Do I need any qualifications or experience to get paid to read books?
A: You should have a strong command of written English and a passion for reading. Having previous reviewing experience or a background in literature can be beneficial.
Q. Are there any costs involved in becoming a paid book reviewer?
A. Generally, there are no upfront costs involved in becoming a paid book reviewer. However, some platforms may require a subscription fee or have specific requirements for accessing review copies of books.
Q. How do I ensure my reviews are of high quality and meet the platform’s standards?
A. For getting decent success read and follow the platform’s guidelines carefully, and take the time to craft thoughtful and insightful reviews. Pay attention to factors such as grammar, structure, and tone, and consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors to improve your reviewing skills.
How do you get paid on Booklist?
Booklist pays $15 for each review.
Conclusion
I hope this article explains how to get paid to review books has helped you a lot.
Book review platforms like OnlineBookClub.org, Kirkus Media, and BookLife Reviews offer exciting opportunities to get paid for sharing your insights on books.
Follow their guidelines, submit your applications, and start earning money doing what you love.
Take action now by exploring these platforms and beginning your journey as a paid book reviewer!
