If you love to read, there are ways you can earn money by reading books. Many companies will pay you to read books and then write reviews on them. Several companies and platforms offer opportunities to earn money by reading books and sharing your thoughts through reviews. In this guide, we'll explore ten reputable avenues that allow you to turn your passion for reading into a profitable venture.



1. Kirkus Media


Pay rate: $40 to $75


Kirkus Media, Media is a long-standing book review company in business since 1933. The company employs people to review books in many genres including science fiction, thriller, romance, non-fiction, etc. While they prefer experienced reviewers, the specific requirements are not defined. Starting a book review blog or sharing your reviews on social media can help demonstrate your writing style to Kirkus. Reviews are typically around 350 words, and you have two weeks to complete them. While the exact pay rates aren't disclosed, it's rumored to range between $40 and $75 per review.


2. BookBrowse


Pay rate: Not specified


BookBrowse, with over two decades of experience, publishes reviews for fiction, nonfiction, and young adult books. They emphasize hiring proficient reviewers and often prefer U.S.-based reviewers due to shipping constraints. Reviews should be at least 300 words, and pay details are not specified, but you'll receive a byline and modest compensation.


3. Reedsy Discovery


Pay rate: Tip-based


Reedsy Discovery specializes in reviewing independently published books. Reviewers can create a profile on the platform and build their brand. Payment for reviews is based on reader tips, typically ranging from $1 to $5. The potential for earnings depends on the popularity of your reviews.


4. U.S. Review of Books


Pay rate: Freelance, unspecified


The U.S. Review of Books connects authors with professional reviewers. You'll need to submit work samples and references that align with the site's expectations. Reviews should be 250-300 words long and include a summary, personal insights, and comparisons with similar titles. Payment details aren't specified, as reviewers work as freelancers.


5. Women’s Review of Books


Pay rate: $100 per review


Run by the Wellesley Centers for Women, Women’s Review of Books seeks experienced reviewers, especially educators, journalists, or those with substantial review experience. They offer $100 per review and are open to hiring additional reviewers. If you're interested, you can submit your pitch and previous reviews.


6. Online Book Club


Pay rate: Between $5 and $60 per review


Online Book Club is a community for book enthusiasts. Reviewers receive free copies of books and payment ranging from $5 to $60 per review, with experienced reviewers potentially earning a couple of hundred dollars per month. This platform offers diverse reading opportunities and is open to new reviewers.


7. Upwork


Pay rate: 10% of earnings


Upwork is a freelance marketplace where you can offer book-related services such as editing, ghostwriting, content creation, and translation. You set your pay rate and can find book-related jobs that match your skills. Upwork charges a 10% fee on your earnings.


8. ACX


Pay rate: Varies based on the author you work with


ACX hires narrators for audiobooks. You create a profile, and authors choose you based on auditions. Payment terms are negotiated with the author and can include hourly wages, royalties, or project-based payments.


9. Booklist


Pay rate: $15 per review


Booklist, associated with the American Library Association, publishes reviews of newly released books. Reviewers should be familiar with books and libraries. Reviews run between 175 and 225 words and pay $15 per review.


10. Writerful Books


Pay rate: Up to $50 per review


Writerful Books assists authors with editing and manuscript assessment. Reviewers are paid up to $50 per review, and genres include chick-lit, horror, mystery, contemporary fiction, and more.


Final Thoughts

While getting paid to read books won't make you rich, it's a rewarding way to earn money doing something you love. Writing reviews, which typically run under 500 words, can become faster with practice. Consider signing up with multiple platforms to maximize your earnings. Moreover, if you enjoy the writing aspect, you might expand into other opportunities like freelance writing or editing.


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FAQs

Can I make a substantial income by getting paid to read books?

No, this is typically a supplementary income source, and earnings vary based on the platform and your experience.


Do I need to be an experienced reviewer to get paid for reading books?

While some platforms prefer experienced reviewers, many are open to newcomers with a passion for reading.


Can I choose the books I review?

It depends on the platform. Some let you select books, while others assign them to you.


Are there any costs associated with becoming a book reviewer?

Most platforms do not charge reviewers, but some may require you to purchase the books you review.


Can I turn this into a full-time career?

It's challenging to make a full-time income solely from book reviewing. Consider it as a part-time or hobby-based income source.