Many people dream of getting paid to read books, but it’s not just a fantasy. It is possible to earn real money by reading and reviewing books for various websites and companies. Different organizations look for readers to write honest reviews, summarize stories, or proofread new manuscripts.
Some websites pay users for each book review, while others offer payment for editing and feedback. Readers can explore opportunities on platforms such as Reedsy, Online Book Club, and eBookFairs, where writing book reviews can turn a hobby into extra income.
For those who love books, these options make it easy to get started without special training or experience. By joining a paid reader program or freelance site, anyone can begin earning money while discovering new stories and authors.
Understanding How to Get Paid to Read Books
Many people enjoy reading, but not everyone knows they can earn money by reading books in different ways. Opportunities include reviewing, editing, or reading books out loud for companies, publishers, and authors.
What Does It Mean to Get Paid to Read?
Getting paid to read means someone is compensated for reading books and usually providing some kind of feedback or service related to the book. This can include book reviews, proofreading, beta reading, or narrating audiobooks.
Reviewers often share their honest opinions, highlight strengths and weaknesses, and help readers or publishers decide if a book is worth reading or publishing. Proofreaders find spelling, grammar, and formatting mistakes. Beta readers let authors know if a story makes sense or if the characters are believable.
Some people are paid per review or project, while others might work for ongoing clients. Compensation can range from free books to actual payments. Legit ways to get paid to read often require good reading and writing skills.
Different Types of Book-Related Jobs
There are several jobs linked to reading books. Common roles include:
Book Reviewer: Shares opinions about new releases for magazines or online publications.
Proofreader: Corrects errors before publishing.
Beta Reader: Reads unpublished work and provides feedback for improvement.
Audiobook Narrator: Reads books aloud for audio recordings.
Editor: Reviews book manuscripts for quality and accuracy.
Some jobs are freelance, while others may be for established companies or magazines. Popular publications for reviewers include Publishers Weekly, U.S. Review of Books, and Women’s Review of Books. Editors and proofreaders might find steady projects with publishing houses or through freelance platforms. These positions usually pay per assignment or by the hour, depending on the task and experience required.
Popular Platforms and Companies That Pay Readers
Several platforms and companies are known for offering legitimate ways to get paid to read. Websites like Publishers Weekly, The U.S. Review of Books, and Women’s Review of Books regularly look for reviewers. Freelancers can also sign up for Upwork or Fiverr to provide proofreading or editing services.
Other options include NetGalley for reviewing digital books, and various magazines or book review blogs that pay for detailed reviews. Some companies send free books as payment, while others pay cash. Each platform has its own requirements, so readers must research before applying.
Book Reviewing for Payment
Book reviewing offers ways for people to earn money by reading and sharing their opinions. A few established websites provide structured programs, while writing skills and careful submissions can help reviewers stand out.
Major Book Review Websites
There are several trusted platforms that pay for book reviews. Kirkus Reviews is well-known for hiring experienced reviewers to write honest, thoughtful reviews for both fiction and non-fiction titles. The U.S. Review of Books also regularly seeks new reviewers who can deliver reliable feedback on a range of genres.
Online Book Club is another option, offering free books in exchange for detailed reviews, with payment starting after the first approved review. Sites like Reedsy Discovery, BookBrowse, and NetGalley connect readers and reviewers, sometimes offering compensation or other incentives. For more flexibility, online platforms like Medium allow reviewers to publish their own articles and earn based on readership and engagement. Writerful Books and New Pages sometimes list opportunities or review magazines.
A quick comparison:
| Website | Pays for Reviews | Other Perks |
|---|---|---|
| Kirkus Reviews | Yes | Regular assignments |
| U.S. Review of Books | Yes | Choice of books to review |
| Online Book Club | Yes | Free books, pay after first |
| Reedsy Discovery | Sometimes | Exposure to indie authors |
| BookBrowse | Yes | Advanced Reader Copies (ARCs) |
How to Write Effective Book Reviews
Strong book reviews focus on both summary and analysis. Reviewers should read carefully, taking notes on characters, plot, and writing style. After finishing the book, the review should start with a clear, brief summary to set context.
Analysis should address what works and what doesn’t, using examples when possible. Opinions should be honest but respectful. Avoid spoilers, or warn readers if they are included.
Good reviews are usually 250-400 words and written in clear, simple language. Professional tone is important, whether the review is for Kirkus Media or a platform like Medium. Formatting with bold for book titles and italic for key points helps make the review easier to read.
Submitting and Getting Accepted as a Reviewer
To become a paid reviewer, candidates often need to apply directly to review sites by submitting sample reviews or short applications. Each website has its own process. For example, applicants to Kirkus Reviews and The U.S. Review of Books must demonstrate writing ability and a clear understanding of book review standards.
Some sites, like Online Book Club, allow anyone to sign up, review a book, and then start earning after their first accepted review. Others, like Reedsy Discovery, look for reviewers with a platform or established writing samples.
Providing clear, thoughtful examples in applications increases the chance of being chosen. Timeliness and reliability are important for getting repeat work and better assignments.
Freelance Opportunities in the Book Industry
People can earn money in the book world by offering skills beyond just reading. Tasks like editing, reviewing, art, and translating all offer ways to get paid for helping authors and publishers.
Freelance Proofreading and Editing
Freelance proofreading and editing involve checking manuscripts for grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes. Editors may also work on the flow, clarity, and structure of the book. This is important, as clean and polished books have a better chance of success.
Book proofreader jobs are often found on websites like Reedsy and Upwork. Freelancers can expect to work with indie authors, small publishers, or even larger companies. It helps to have knowledge of style guides, such as APA or Chicago.
Many freelance proofreaders charge by the hour or per word. Starting out, rates may be lower, but experienced editors can earn more as they gain client trust and positive feedback.
Book Illustration and Design
Book illustrators create images for book covers, chapter headings, and children’s books. Designers help arrange text, images, and graphics to make the book look appealing. Both roles need a strong portfolio and understanding of publishing standards.
Freelancers in this area usually get work by sharing samples on sites like Upwork or Reedsy. Good communication with clients is key, especially when handling feedback or making revisions.
Some illustrators charge per project, while others prefer hourly rates. The pay can vary widely, but skilled illustrators and designers who meet deadlines and follow directions are often in high demand.
Translating Books for Payment
Translators help books reach readers who speak different languages. They need strong language skills, fluency in at least two languages, and an understanding of both cultures involved. This job is more than just switching words—it’s about keeping the meaning and tone of the original book.
Those who translate books often find freelance opportunities through agencies, author websites, or freelance platforms. Translators might get paid per word, per page, or for the whole book.
Having experience or a degree in translation helps, but building a good reputation over time is the best way to land more work. Some translators specialize in fiction, non-fiction, or technical books.
Finding Freelance Book Reviewer Roles
Freelance book reviewers get paid to read and share honest opinions about new titles. Some sites pay for each review, while others offer free books in exchange for feedback. Writing clear and fair reviews is important to keep getting assignments.
Book reviewers can create profiles on websites like Upwork or join dedicated groups and review communities. Publishers and authors may hire them directly for honest feedback.
Reviewers need to follow guidelines, meet deadlines, and write at a level that matches the audience. Writing for established magazines or online platforms can sometimes pay more, but requires experience and strong writing samples. For more tips, see ways to get paid to read books.
Audiobook Narration and Related Gigs
Many people get paid to read books by working as audiobook narrators. This job involves reading scripts, recording high-quality audio, and partnering with publishers and authors. Those interested in this role need to understand the skills required, how to create demos, and which websites to use.
How to Become an Audiobook Narrator
To become an audiobook narrator, a person needs clear reading skills, a steady voice, and the ability to express emotion through tone. Experience in acting or voiceover often helps, but it’s possible to start with little background by practicing with different book genres.
Learning to read smoothly and correct mistakes quickly is important. Narrators should also learn about pacing and how to distinguish character voices. Many people start by listening to popular audiobooks and mimicking the style of professional narrators.
Certification is not required, but some take online courses or workshops to improve their narration skills. They usually need a quiet space for recording, a good microphone, and audio editing software. These basics help make cleaner, more professional sound recordings.
Recording and Submitting Audiobook Demos
Recording demos is the first step in showing potential clients your abilities. Aspiring narrators should pick short pieces from public domain books to avoid copyright issues. Recording should take place in a quiet room using a quality microphone and headphones to monitor sound.
Editing is just as important as reading. Basic steps include removing background noise, adding pauses, and making sure the voice is clear. Programs like Audacity and Adobe Audition are often used because they are reliable and easy to learn.
Once the demo is ready, it should be saved in high-quality MP3 or WAV format. Submit these demos to audiobook platforms or talent agencies that review and select narrators. Demos should show a variety of narration styles, such as fiction and nonfiction, to attract a wider range of job offers.
Top Platforms for Audiobook Work
Several websites connect narrators with authors and publishers. The most popular is ACX, which helps narrators produce audiobooks for Audible and Amazon. On ACX, narrators are paid per finished hour or through royalty share deals.
Findaway Voices is another top choice, known for working with libraries and other audiobook services. Narrators can set their rates and keep more control over their work.
Sites like Voices, Upwork, and Bunny Studio offer narration and voiceover gigs beyond audiobooks. Listing demos and creating a strong profile on these platforms gives new narrators a better chance to book jobs and gain experience.
Launching a Book-Centric Side Hustle
Reading can turn into a profitable activity by using online platforms. Many book lovers find new streams of income by sharing their thoughts, building audiences, and using affiliate links to make money.
Starting a Book Review Blog
A book review blog offers a space to share honest opinions about recent reads. The blog should focus on a specific genre or target audience for quicker growth. To attract readers, consistent posting, simple ratings, and clear summaries are important.
A key way to increase earnings is to join affiliate programs. With programs like Amazon Associates, reviewers can include affiliate links in their posts. When readers buy a recommended book through those links, the blogger earns a small commission. Paid advertising and sponsored reviews bring in additional income as traffic grows.
Blogs also benefit from regular engagement. Replying to comments, running polls, and starting email newsletters can keep readers returning. Over time, more visits and shares lead to better monetization options.
Growing a YouTube Channel or BookTube
BookTube is a part of YouTube focused on books and reading. BookTubers often create videos about reading challenges, book hauls, reviews, or themed recommendations. Videos with clear audio and good lighting are more likely to attract an audience.
A YouTube channel can be monetized in several ways. Once a channel has 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours, creators can earn ad revenue through YouTube’s Partner Program. Many BookTubers also promote affiliate links for books in their video descriptions. Popular creators get offers for sponsorships, allowing them to earn more by featuring certain books or brands.
Community engagement is important for growth. Replying to viewer comments, asking for feedback, and collaborating with other BookTubers can help grow a loyal following.
Podcasting About Books
A book podcast is a way to discuss new releases, author interviews, or reading tips. Podcasts are flexible and can cover a single genre or many topics. Short, focused episodes work well for new listeners, while longer interviews attract dedicated listeners.
Podcasters make money through sponsorships, listener support (like Patreon), or running ads. Offering bonus content, such as exclusive interviews or early access, can convince listeners to give monthly contributions. Affiliate links for featured books can also be promoted in show notes.
To stand out, podcasts should be released on a set schedule and shared on podcast directories such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts. A memorable intro and outro helps build a professional image and keeps listeners coming back.
Leveraging Social Media to Monetize Reading
Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter make it easy for readers to share book reviews, recommendations, and reading updates. Bookstagram and BookTok are two popular hashtags where people discuss their favorite reads using photos or short videos.
Users can earn through affiliate links included in stories or posts. As their accounts grow, companies may offer sponsorships for promoting new books or book-related merchandise. Some successful users set up websites listing book orders or affiliate links for extra income.
Engaging with followers by responding to comments and running giveaways creates an active community. Posting consistently, using trending hashtags, and collaborating with other book lovers help increase reach and earning potential.
Alternative Ways to Earn Income by Reading
Many people look for different ways to make money by reading, especially beyond traditional book reviews. There are specific platforms and programs that pay for creating content, offering feedback, or reading educational material.
Creating Book Summaries
Some readers earn money by creating book summaries for companies, websites, or readers who want the main points without reading the full text. Services like getAbstract pay contributors to write clear and accurate summaries of nonfiction books, covering topics like business, psychology, and leadership.
Writers must show they can understand books quickly and summarize them accurately. Payment can vary depending on the company and the length or complexity of the summary.
Besides platforms like getAbstract, authors can create their own book summary websites or sell PDFs and guides on platforms such as ebookfairs. This allows them to earn repeat income if their summaries are popular or fill a gap in the market.
Participating in Booklist and Rewards Programs
Joining booklist programs or online reading rewards clubs is another way to earn money. My Reader Rewards Club rewards readers for completing certain tasks, such as reading chapters, reviewing books, or sharing opinions. Rewards may include points, gift cards, or free books.
Booklist programs, run by platforms and publishers, pay readers to review new and upcoming titles. Some even pay extra for honest, detailed feedback on children’s books or niche genres. Users sign up, complete reading assignments, and receive payment or other rewards.
These options suit readers looking for flexible side income and who enjoy recommending books to others.
Getting Paid for Reading Nonfiction and Academic Texts
Certain companies hire readers to review, summarize, or proofread nonfiction books and academic articles. WordsRated pays readers to collect data or check facts in nonfiction texts. This type of work requires attention to detail and strong reading comprehension.
Many academic organizations and researchers need people to review studies, summarize findings, or proofread journal articles. These jobs are often found on freelancer websites or through university job boards.
Readers with experience or interest in nonfiction fields such as science, history, or business may find more gigs through these connections. Compensation often depends on the project size and the reader’s background.
Working With Publishers and Literary Agents
People get paid to read books by finding work with publishers, becoming readers for literary agents, or exploring other roles in publishing companies. These jobs usually require attention to detail, strong reading skills, and professionalism.
Finding Opportunities With Publishers
Many publishers hire readers, often called “manuscript readers” or “slush pile readers.” These positions involve evaluating submissions from authors and giving feedback to editors. Most readers work on a freelance or part-time basis. Publishers sometimes post these openings on career sites, but they may also list them directly on their company websites.
Jobs with major publishers can be competitive. Candidates usually need excellent grammar and a strong understanding of what makes a book marketable. Some publishers prefer previous experience or a degree in English, communications, or publishing. Reading self-published books can occasionally be part of the job, especially for presses open to indie authors. Companies look for readers who can summarize manuscripts clearly and offer thoughtful comments.
It’s important for applicants to submit a professional résumé and tailor their cover letter to the specific publisher. Good communication and timely responses help build a positive reputation in the industry.
Becoming a Literary Agent Reader
Literary agents help authors sell their books and make deals with publishers. Many agents hire freelance readers—often called “first readers” or “interns”—to review incoming manuscripts. These positions can be unpaid or offer modest pay, but they give valuable publishing experience and networking opportunities.
Readers are expected to write short reports or “reader’s reports” highlighting a manuscript’s strengths and weaknesses. Agents use this feedback when deciding whether to take on new clients or sell new books. Most agents prefer readers who can spot strong writing, avoid common tropes, and explain why a book might succeed or fail.
Applications for these jobs often appear on agent websites, publishing job boards, or internship databases such as bookjobs.com. Professionalism is key, as literary agent positions often involve handling confidential material.
Exploring Roles in Publishing Companies
Publishing companies offer several roles that involve reading and evaluating manuscripts. Besides editors, there are positions like acquisitions assistants, freelance readers, or screening interns. Jobs can focus on reading for style, market fit, or spotting errors before publication.
Most companies use a team approach, where several people might review a manuscript before making a decision. Experience with self-published books can be valuable, especially for companies interested in finding new voices outside traditional channels. Pay rates for freelance readers can vary; some report earning between $25 and $100 per manuscript, depending on length and complexity, as seen in this guide to freelance reading.
Applicants should be prepared to manage deadlines, write clear notes, and stay organized. Strong reading and writing skills, as well as an understanding of current publishing trends, help candidates succeed.
Maximizing Earnings and Achieving Professionalism
Earn more money by pricing services right, proving your skills, and staying motivated. Growing a book-reading career takes both smart business moves and a true love for reading.
Setting Appropriate Rates and Payment Methods
Setting the right rate is important for getting paid fairly. Most people start with lower rates when they have less experience and raise them as they build a reputation. Rates for book reviewers or proofreaders can range from $10 to $100 per review or per hour, depending on the task and experience. New readers can search for pay guidelines on job boards and review platforms.
Payment methods should also be easy and safe. Many freelancers use PayPal, bank transfers, or services like Venmo. It’s good practice to create clear contracts or use service agreements to prevent confusion about rates and deadlines. Tracking invoices and payments can help manage multiple projects. Always ask questions before starting and discuss payment terms in detail. For more information about getting paid to read books, visit SolidGigs’s guide.
Developing a Portfolio and Gaining Experience
A strong portfolio is key in proving reading, editing, or reviewing skills. Beginners can start by offering short reviews on sites that accept submissions from the public or by working with smaller blogs and magazines. Building a collection of high-quality samples helps to attract bigger clients over time.
Professionalism means meeting deadlines, following guidelines, and editing work for clarity and correctness. Feedback from early projects should be used to improve. Listing finished work in an organized portfolio, either on a personal website or a document, makes it easier for clients to see skills. Volunteer work or sample projects can also go into the portfolio, especially for those just starting out.
Building Passion for Reading Into a Sustainable Career
Loving books is important to stay motivated in the long run. Passion for reading leads to better results, and it’s easier to find repeat work if a person shows real interest in books. Professionals often read different genres and keep learning about new trends to keep passion alive.
Balancing job offers, deadlines, and personal enjoyment can take practice. Setting a fixed schedule can help avoid burnout. Some people join online communities for book lovers or freelance readers to share tips and support each other. Turning a love of books into a steady income is possible when skills and passion match. For extra ideas, read this list of ways to get paid to read books.
Genres and Book Types Open for Paid Reading
Readers interested in paid book review work often encounter a wide mix of popular and lesser-known genres. From bestselling novels to indie releases, these opportunities let readers explore many types of books for compensation.
Adult Fiction and Nonfiction
Many paid reading jobs focus on adult fiction and nonfiction. Adult fiction includes genres like mystery, romance, science fiction, and literary novels. Reviewers may be hired by online platforms, publishers, or magazines to share honest opinions on new releases.
Nonfiction works cover topics like history, biography, politics, health, and self-improvement. Publishers and review sites value feedback on how relatable or informative the content is for adult readers.
Some sites—such as BookBrowse—actively seek readers to review both adult fiction and nonfiction books for their audience. These jobs often require clear writing, attention to detail, and a willingness to read a range of subjects. Find more examples at BookBrowse’s reviewer application page.
Classics and Literary Works
Classics and literary books are also part of paid reading. Many reviews of these books are for academic sites, literary journals, or reading resource websites. The focus is often on how these works stand the test of time, their themes, and their cultural impact.
Readers might review works by classic authors like Jane Austen or Charles Dickens. Assignments in this area can involve deeper analysis and may require some background knowledge in literature.
Some paid opportunities focus on making classic literature more accessible by summarizing key points, reviewing modern retellings, or comparing new editions. While fewer in number than reviews of new fiction, these assignments can appeal to those who enjoy thoughtful, in-depth reading.
Self-Published and Indie Books
A growing area for paid reading is the review of self-published and indie books. Independent authors often seek feedback to build credibility and reach more readers. Paid reviewers in this genre read many types of books, including romance, fantasy, memoir, and thrillers.
Self-published authors use sites like Reedsy to connect with readers willing to write reviews. These opportunities usually focus on newer authors and unpublished works, so reviewers may experience a fresh style or unique story ideas.
Work in the indie book space can include leaving feedback on online bookstores, writing blog posts, or submitting reviews for publishing platforms. For more information, you can explore ways to get paid for indie book reviews through the Reedsy Book Review program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting paid to read books is possible through different types of jobs. These include writing book reviews, narrating audiobooks, and joining specific online platforms.
How can I earn money by reading books online?
People can earn money by reviewing books on websites that pay for honest opinions. Some platforms focus on detailed reviews, while others offer smaller payouts for brief feedback. Sites like Reedsy Discovery and BookBrowse pay readers to share their thoughts on new releases.
What platforms offer payment for reading books aloud?
Those who have a clear voice can earn money by narrating audiobooks. Sites such as ACX connect narrators with authors who need their books recorded. Payments can come as flat fees, royalties, or a mix of both.
Are there opportunities to get paid for book reviews on Amazon?
Writers used to get paid for writing reviews directly on Amazon, but the company has strict rules now. However, some publishers and third-party sites may pay people to write detailed, honest reviews for books that are then posted on Amazon within the guidelines. Always check company policies to make sure the practice is allowed.
How does ACX work for those looking to read books for money?
ACX is a service from Amazon that helps connect authors and narrators. Narrators audition for books, and if chosen, they record the full book. Payment options include a one-time fee or a share of the royalties from audiobook sales. The platform has clear instructions for beginners.
Can you actually get paid $200 for reading a book, and which company offers this?
Some sites or publishers may offer $200 for a full-length audiobook narration, but exact pay often depends on the length and complexity of the project. Higher rates are usually offered to experienced narrators or for longer books. Most common opportunities pay less, especially for beginners.
Is it possible to make $100 per hour by reading, and what website provides such an opportunity?
It is rare to make $100 per hour reading books online. Some skilled and in-demand narrators might earn higher rates, but most entry-level positions pay less. Marketplace rates can be checked on platforms like Freelancer FAQs or ACX, but high hourly pay is not common for new readers.
