Do you like reading books? What if I said that you could receive money for this? Believe it or not, several companies will pay you to read books and write reviews.
Americans don’t read much. According to a recent Pew Research Center survey, 23% of adults in the country have not read a single book in the last twelve months. However, according to UNESCO, approximately 2,210,000 books published worldwide each year based on the most recent country data available.
Publishing a book is undeniably competitive, and authors are keen for readers to review their books so they can get more information. They are willing to pay readers (for example, you and me) to get carried away with a good book.
In this post, we will discuss how to get paid for reading books online and some of the best websites that offer this opportunity. So if you are looking for a way earn extra moneyKeep reading!
Get paid for reading books online
The following websites are looking for freelancers to read books:
- Kirkus Media
- Online book club
- Upwork
- US Book Review
- Women’s book review
- List of books
- Search voices
- ACX
- Baker Publishing Group
- Moody Publishers
- clean kitchen
- Reedsey Discovery
Kirkus Media
Kirkus Media is a company that pays people to read and write book reviews. The company covers all genres and volumes of books. The paid assignment is to read a novel and write a review of approximately 350 words over a period of two weeks. They need experienced reviewers who can read books in English or Spanish. According to freelance reviewers online, Kirkus Media pays up to $60 for a book review. Find more information here.
Online book club
An online book club allows reviewers to read and review books in exchange for payment. The books are free and you will be paid for an honest review of the book. The payout is typically between $5 and $60 per review. While not a get-rich-quick scheme, it provides additional cash flow and saves you money on books you would otherwise buy. Find more information here.
Upwork
If you don’t want to work through a company, why not try posting a freelancer profile on sites like Upwork or Fiverr? You can offer your services as a reviewer and get paid for your work. Set your bid and offer, which will vary depending on the length of the book and the depth of review required. The money paid through the platform will be securely credited to your account when you complete the work.
US Book Review
The US Review of Books hires experienced writers to write 250-300 word reviews of the most relevant books. Reviews should summarize the book, giving thoughtful ideas within 2-3 weeks. To apply, you will need to send in your CV, a work sample, and two professional references. They pay reviewers by the fifth of every month. Find more information here.
Women’s book review
The Women’s Review of Books has been in existence since 1983. The magazine covers all genres of books, especially those written by women. They want to provide a platform for feminist scholars and creative writers and support women’s critical writing. Expect feminism and a look at today’s literary world. According to sources, reviewers are rewarded with $100 per review. Find more information here.
List of books
Booklist is an American Library Association publication that has been in existence since 1905. It publishes over 8,000 recommended reviews each year on a variety of books, videos, audios, and other material formats. Booklist freelancers provide 150-175 word reviews. Reviews can be published on an online blog or in their magazine. According to the guidelines, these reviews should reflect the context, plot, ideal audience, and more. Reviews serve as a guide for librarians on which books to buy and recommend. Booklist pays $15 per review. Find more information here.
Search voices
If you want to make more money from your hobby, why not try reading books out loud? If you’re a professional voice actor or announcer, you can sign up for Findaway Voices and get paid to record audiobooks. Set up a profile and provide audio samples so that authors can find you. Prices vary depending on the length of the book and other factors. Search voices estimates that the average audiobook of 50,000 words costs between $1,000 and $2,000. Find more information here.
ACX
ACX is a site similar to Findaway Voices but best known for its audiobooks available on Amazon, Audible and iTunes. Authors can create their own audiobook or hire an narrator with audio recording and editing experience. After creating a profile, you can view available projects and audition for voiceover jobs that interest you. Rates vary depending on the length of the book and other factors, but storytellers usually earn by the hour completed, or they may earn as they see fit. up to 50% royalty or both! Earnings vary by experience, and storytellers can set their own rates. According to Web site, “Some audiobooks sell in small quantities, but fortunately most of them sell in the hundreds or thousands.” Find more information here.
Baker Publishing Group
If you’re a fan of Christian fiction or non-fiction books, you can try your hand at being a reviewer for the Baker Publishing Group. They send out newsletters by email with potential books for review. You should strive to read, review, promote and support the books you subscribe to through your online platform. Due to shipping costs, they are currently only able to accept US residents. Find more information here.
Moody Publishers
Moody Publishers is a non-profit Christian publishing house that has been in existence since 1894. Reviewers will receive free copies of books in exchange for a review on their website and on a third party website such as Amazon or Walmart. Find more information here.
NetGalley
NetGalley helps emerging authors, upcoming bestsellers and independent books reach a wider audience. Request and read digital copies of books before they are published. While anyone can sign up to review books, they favor bloggers, seasoned reviewers, or members of professional organizations. While there is no charge, this is a great way to find new books to review and recommend. Find more information here.
Reedsey Discovery
Reedsy Discovery is a service that connects authors with reviewers. Once you sign up and get approved, you can browse available books before they launch and request the ones that interest you. When you’ve finished reading and reviewing a book, your review will be shown to the book reader community, who may become potential subscribers. Subscribers tip between $1 and $5. Find more information here.
How to become a successful book reviewer
Becoming a successful book reviewer takes practice, patience, and an unquenchable love of books. Here are some tips:
- Find relevant publications or sites where you can post your reviews. Make sure they cover the genre of books you are interested in reading.
- Learn the book review format and start reviewing your own books so you can submit samples of your work.
- Write a strong, catchy title for your review. This will encourage readers to click on your review and not on everyone else.
- Be honest in your feedback. Readers can tell when you’re faking and no one wants to read a fake review.
- Get social! Share your feedback on social networks, be sure to mark the author and publication. The more attention your review gets, the better.
- If you would like to work for a specific company or publication, please contact the Peer Review team and ask about job opportunities.
How much can I earn by reading books?
A professional reviewer in the United States earns on average $29.62 per hour or $61,614 per year. The top 10% of reviewers earn $151,000 a year, while the bottom 10% earn less than $25,000. 59.3% of reviewers have a bachelor’s degree and 24.4% of reviewers have a master’s degree in English or a related field; however, one can only become a reviewer with secondary school degree or GED. Many previous book reviewers had experience as writers or editors before taking on this role.
Announcers do more than just read books aloud. They may also be involved in advertising on radio, television, or other professional services. The average behind-the-scenes talent in the US earns $83,515 per year or $40.15 per hour in the US. This ranges from $55,000 (Junior) to $124,000 (Senior). This salary varies widely from state to state.
Finally
If you are looking for earn extra money and want to get paid for what you love, reading books and writing reviews can be the perfect activity for you. With practice and perseverance, you can become a successful book reviewer, win over a readership, and even make a living from your passion.
Making money by reading books can be a great side job for passionate book lovers, literature lovers, or other writers. These book review sites are a quick introduction to get you started, but do your own research before suggesting.
