Get Paid to Read Books: Turning Passion into Profit

Think You Can’t Make Money Reading? Think Again!

Love getting lost in a good book?

What if we told you that your passion for the written word could be your ticket to a fulfilling and profitable career? It’s true! In today’s digital age, there are more opportunities than ever to turn your love of reading into a sustainable income.

Whether you’re a grammar whiz who cringes at typos, a natural storyteller with a voice made for audio, or simply someone with a knack for crafting compelling reviews, this guide will reveal the many ways you can get paid to do what you love most: read.

Get ready to explore exciting career paths, discover platforms that pay for your literary talents, and learn how to transform your favorite pastime into a rewarding profession.

Book Reviewing

One of the most straightforward ways to get paid to read books is by becoming a book reviewer. Many platforms offer compensation for book reviews, providing both free copies of books and payment for your insights.

Here are some reputable sites where you can start earning by reviewing books:

1. Kirkus Reviews: Known for its critical acclaim, Kirkus pays $50 to $75 per review, focusing on self-published and indie books. They look for reviewers who can write 350-word reviews within two weeks. This is a great opportunity if you’re seeking good books to read and want to share your insights on them. Kirkus provides an excellent platform for those interested in serious literary critique and gaining exposure in the publishing industry.
2. Reedsy Discovery: This platform allows reviewers to read the latest self-published books and earn tips from readers. Reviewers can build a profile and gain visibility within the community. If you’re searching for free books to read, Reedsy Discovery can provide a steady stream of new titles. Reviewers can get tips ranging from $1 to $5 from readers who appreciate their work, making it a unique and rewarding experience.
3. Online Book Club: This site pays between $5 and $60 per review. It provides a free copy of the book and expects an honest review in return. It’s known for its transparent payment rates. Ideal for those who want to read books online free and get paid for their opinions, Online Book Club also offers a structured platform where reviewers can steadily earn money and improve their reviewing skills.
4. The U.S. Review of Books: This platform offers freelance opportunities for reviewers to write 250-300 word reviews on a variety of books. Professionalism and informed opinions are highly valued. It’s a perfect choice for book readers looking to earn money while providing concise and insightful critiques. The reviews are published in a popular monthly newsletter, giving reviewers broad exposure.
5. Booklist Publications: Catering to librarians, Booklist pays $12.50 to $15 per review and offers bylines for the reviewers. Reviews are generally short, no longer than 175 words, making it suitable for those who want to read books online and provide quick, insightful feedback. Booklist’s association with the American Library Association adds credibility and professional recognition to reviewers’ work.
6. Women’s Review of Books: This publication pays $100 per review and is known for its feminist perspective. It seeks reviewers who can provide insightful critiques. If you’re looking for the best books to read and offer a feminist critique, this is an excellent platform. The long-standing publication focuses on books that explore women’s issues, making it an ideal outlet for reviewers passionate about gender studies and feminist literature.
7. Any Subject Books: This service hires reviewers on a freelance basis to write in-depth and objective reviews for a variety of genres. It’s great for books to read online that cater to diverse interests. Any Subject Books allows reviewers to specialize in genres they are passionate about, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable reviewing experience.
8. NetGalley: This platform connects reviewers with publishers and authors, providing free digital review copies of books. Reviewers must maintain an 80% feedback ratio to remain in good standing. It’s a fantastic resource for those who want to read free books online and share their reviews. NetGalley is particularly popular among librarians, booksellers, educators, and media professionals, providing early access to a wide range of titles.
9. eBookFairs: This site has a Paid Book Reader program where reviewers can earn money by reviewing books listed on their site. They require detailed and helpful feedback for authors. It’s a good way to access free reading books and get compensated for your reviews. eBookFairs focuses on promoting new authors and providing them with valuable feedback, making it a supportive community for both reviewers and writers.
10. Publishers Weekly: This industry staple occasionally calls for book reviewers, offering $25 per review. Reviewers must keep an eye on their job postings for openings. It’s ideal for professionals who read books to read online and want to earn extra income. Publishers Weekly is highly respected in the publishing industry, and writing for them can significantly enhance a reviewer’s credentials.
11. Instaread: This platform pays $100 for book summaries, focusing on the key insights of nonfiction books. Each summary is about 1000 to 1500 words. It’s perfect for those who prefer book reading and summarizing content. Instaread caters to busy professionals who want to grasp the essence of nonfiction books quickly, making it a unique niche for reviewers with strong analytical skills.
12. Moody Press: As part of their Blogger Review Program, Moody Press offers free ARCs (Advance Reading Copies) of Christian titles in exchange for honest reviews. It’s a niche opportunity for those interested in reading books within the Christian genre. Reviewers must post their reviews within 60 days, providing timely feedback that helps authors and publishers.
13. New Pages: This site seeks short book reviews (100-200 words) for books from small presses and literary magazines, paying on a variable basis. It’s an excellent platform for discovering good books to read from lesser-known publishers. New Pages is ideal for reviewers who enjoy exploring diverse and often overlooked literary works.
14. Tyndale Blog Network: Through their My Reader Rewards Club, reviewers can earn points for various activities, which can be exchanged for books from Tyndale’s catalog. It’s a great way to read books for free and earn rewards. The program encourages active participation and offers a wide selection of Christian literature, making it a rewarding experience for faith-based readers.
15. BookBrowse: This site focuses on adult fiction, nonfiction, and some young adult books. Reviewers also write a “beyond the book” article for each book they review. It’s ideal for those who enjoy in-depth reading books and providing comprehensive reviews. BookBrowse aims to provide readers with a deeper understanding of the books they read, enhancing the reviewing experience with contextual articles.
16. Upwork: This freelance marketplace often has listings for book reviewers. The pay and requirements vary depending on the client. It’s a flexible option for freelancers who want to read books online and get paid. Upwork allows reviewers to set their rates and choose projects that match their interests and expertise, offering a wide range of opportunities.
17. getAbstract: This site summarizes nonfiction books into short bites. They pay freelance writers to create these summaries, which typically take about 10 minutes to read. It’s a perfect gig for those who enjoy book reading and distilling information into concise summaries. getAbstract is ideal for those who have a knack for synthesizing complex information into clear, actionable insights.
18. Writerful Books: This author services company hires book reviewers to write reviews for a variety of contemporary titles. Payment ranges from $10 to $50 per review. It’s suitable for those who want to read free books online and provide thoughtful critiques. Writerful Books offers a supportive environment for reviewers to hone their skills and contribute to the literary community.

Proofreading and Editing

If you have a keen eye for detail, consider a career in proofreading or editing.

These roles involve reading books to correct grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and inconsistencies. Many editors start as proofreaders and gradually move on to more intensive editing tasks, such as improving plot development and character arcs.

This not only allows you to read books but also helps refine them before publication.

Here are some platforms where you can find proofreading and editing opportunities:

1. Scribendi: This Canadian company offers remote proofreading and editing jobs, paying around $25 per hour. Editors are required to complete at least one project every three months, providing flexibility and consistency in work.
2. ProofreadingServices.com: This site pays between $19 and $46 per hour, depending on the turnaround time. They offer flexible working hours and both part-time and full-time remote positions. It’s perfect for those who want to read and polish free books to read.
3. Cactus Global: Specializing in scientific and medical editing, Cactus Global hires freelance editors with expertise in various fields, paying around $15 per hour. This is ideal for those with a background in specific subjects who want to engage in book reading professionally.
4. Scribbr: Focused on helping students with their theses and dissertations, Scribbr pays $22 to $27 per hour. The application process is rigorous, making it suitable for those who enjoy detailed reading books and providing academic feedback.
5. Cambridge Proofreading: This site pays $20 to $30 per hour for proofreading and editing services. Editors must have a bachelor’s degree and be native English speakers, making it a great opportunity for those who want to engage in book reading professionally.
6. EditFast: This platform allows proofreaders to create a profile and bid on projects. They take a 40% commission from each project, and payment is made via PayPal. It’s an excellent platform for those who want to read and edit books to read online.

Literary Translation

For those proficient in multiple languages, literary translation is a rewarding option.

Translators read books in one language and convert them to another, ensuring the style, tone, and cultural context are maintained. This role is ideal for avid readers with strong language skills and a deep understanding of different cultures.

Here are some platforms to explore:

1. Upwork: Lists numerous freelance translation jobs, allowing translators to set their rates and find clients looking for language-specific services. It’s a flexible way to read and translate books to read online.
2. Freelancer.com: Similar to Upwork, this platform allows translators to bid on projects, making it ideal for building a diverse portfolio and engaging in book reading across languages.
3. Gengo: A platform specifically for translators, Gengo offers various translation projects and pays based on the word count and complexity of the text. It’s perfect for those who enjoy reading books and converting them into different languages.
4. ProZ.com: A community of professional translators, ProZ.com lists job opportunities and allows freelancers to network with clients and other translators. It’s a great platform for those who want to engage in book reading professionally.

Audiobook Narration

If you have a talent for reading aloud, audiobook narration could be a great fit.

Narrators bring books to life by recording them for audio consumption. This job requires clear enunciation, a pleasant voice, and sometimes, acting skills to convey different characters and emotions effectively.

Here are some platforms to get started:

1. ACX: Part of Amazon, ACX connects narrators with authors and publishers looking to produce audiobooks. Narrators can earn royalties or a one-time payment, making it a fantastic opportunity for those who enjoy reading books aloud.
2. Voices.com: A platform for voiceover artists, including audiobook narrators. It allows you to create a profile and audition for various projects, ideal for turning your love for book reading into a narration career.
3. Voice123: Similar to Voices.com, this site offers a marketplace for voiceover work, including audiobook narration. You can set your rates and find clients directly, making it suitable for those who want to engage in reading books and narration.
4. Bunny Studio: Offers various voiceover jobs, including audiobooks. They provide a platform for freelancers to showcase their skills and connect with clients, combining your passion for reading books with professional narration.

Starting a Book Blog or YouTube Channel

Creating a blog or YouTube channel dedicated to book reviews and discussions is another excellent way to earn money.

By consistently posting high-quality content, you can attract an audience and monetize your platform through affiliate marketing, ads, and sponsored content. Reviewing popular and niche books can help you build a dedicated following.

Here are some steps to get started:

1. Choose a Niche: Focus on a specific genre or type of book to attract a targeted audience.
2. Create Quality Content: Write insightful and engaging reviews or create compelling video content.
3. Promote Your Platform: Use social media and SEO strategies to attract viewers and followers.
4. Monetize Your Content: Join affiliate programs, set up ads, and seek sponsorships to earn money from your content.

The Bottom Line

In the world of books, opportunities abound for those who seek them.

Whether you’re a lifelong bookworm or a budding wordsmith, there’s a path to turn your literary passion into profit. From sharing your insightful reviews to crafting captivating audiobooks, the options to make money reading books are vast and varied.

Don’t let your love of literature remain a mere hobby.

Start exploring these avenues today, and you might be surprised at how quickly you can turn the pages of your favorite books into a source of income. Remember, every book you read is an investment in your knowledge and potential earnings.

So, jump soonest into the literary world and discover the wealth of opportunities that await you!