If you’re an avid reader, did you know that you can turn your passion for books into a steady income? With the rise of digital platforms and the demand for book reviews, editorial insights, and narrations, there are plenty of opportunities to earn money by reading and reviewing books. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or a full-time gig, some platforms can pay up to $4,000 per month for reading and critiquing books. Here’s a guide to 15 websites where you can start making money for reading books.
1. Kirkus Media
Kirkus Media is a respected name in the world of book reviews, and it regularly hires freelance reviewers to critique new releases, self-published books, and upcoming titles. Kirkus primarily seeks experienced reviewers with a passion for analyzing books in various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, young adult, and more.
How It Works:
- Apply to become a book reviewer by submitting your resume and samples of previous reviews.
- Once accepted, you’ll receive books to review, and each review typically ranges from 350 to 500 words.
- Payments depend on the complexity and length of reviews, and consistent contributors can earn up to $4,000 per month by taking on multiple reviews.
2. Online Book Club
Online Book Club is a popular platform where book enthusiasts can get paid to review books. The site connects readers with new authors who are looking to promote their work and gain feedback from readers. The initial reviews may be unpaid, but once you’ve established a good track record, you can start earning between $5 to $60 per review, depending on the length and depth of the review.
How It Works:
- Sign up as a book reviewer and start with free books in exchange for honest reviews.
- After proving your ability to write quality reviews, you’ll begin receiving paid review opportunities.
- There’s no limit to the number of reviews you can submit, and regular reviewers can potentially scale their earnings over time.
3. Reedsy Discovery
Reedsy Discovery is a platform dedicated to indie authors and book lovers, offering a space for readers to discover new books and provide thoughtful reviews. As a Reedsy Discovery reviewer, you can earn tips for your reviews from readers who appreciate your insights, allowing you to turn your love for books into a side income.
How It Works:
- Sign up as a reviewer and browse a wide range of indie books available for review.
- Post in-depth reviews, and readers can tip you directly for your insights.
- The top reviewers can earn up to $1,000 per month or more through tips and featured opportunities.
4. The U.S. Review of Books
The U.S. Review of Books hires freelance reviewers to write concise book reviews for its monthly publication. If you’re knowledgeable in specific genres or have a critical eye for literature, this can be a great way to earn money from your love of books. The reviews are typically around 250-300 words, and freelancers are compensated based on the number of books they review each month.
How It Works:
- Apply to become a reviewer by submitting samples and relevant experience.
- Once accepted, you’ll be assigned books to review, with deadlines for completion.
- Consistent reviewers can make a substantial monthly income by reviewing multiple books.
5. Booklist Online
Booklist is an American Library Association publication that offers freelance opportunities for reviewers. They regularly hire freelancers to write reviews of books, focusing on specific categories such as adult, children’s, and youth literature. If you have a background in education, libraries, or writing, this could be a rewarding way to earn money.
How It Works:
- Apply as a reviewer by submitting relevant experience and sample reviews.
- Once accepted, you’ll receive books to review, typically focusing on education-related or children’s books.
- Payments are made per review, with the possibility to scale your workload and increase your monthly income.
6. Publishers Weekly
Publishers Weekly is one of the most respected publications in the literary world, providing industry news, book reviews, and author interviews. They hire freelance book reviewers to critique new releases, and while the pay per review may vary, those who consistently review books can potentially earn up to $4,000 monthly by taking on multiple assignments.
How It Works:
- Apply as a reviewer with samples and previous experience in book reviews or editorial work.
- You’ll be assigned books based on your area of expertise.
- The reviews are published in the weekly magazine, and freelancers are compensated per assignment.
7. BookBrowse
BookBrowse offers both paid and volunteer review opportunities. For paid reviews, the site looks for experienced book reviewers who can offer insightful critiques on various genres. Reviewers need to submit samples and go through an application process, but those who are accepted can earn a steady income by consistently writing for the platform.
How It Works:
- Apply to become a reviewer by submitting a resume and samples.
- If accepted, you’ll receive books to review regularly.
- Paid reviewers can earn a steady income, and those who take on multiple books per month can potentially reach a higher earning threshold.
8. Women’s Review of Books
Women’s Review of Books is a publication from Wellesley Centers for Women that focuses on reviewing books written by and about women. They hire freelance reviewers to contribute to the publication. If you’re passionate about gender studies, feminist literature, and women’s issues, this is a great platform to earn money while reading books.
How It Works:
- Apply as a reviewer by submitting your CV and samples.
- Once accepted, you’ll receive books that align with the publication’s themes.
- Earn per review and take on multiple assignments each month to increase your earnings.
9. Upwork
Upwork is a freelance marketplace that offers a variety of job opportunities, including book reviewing and editing gigs. Many self-published authors and publishers seek out freelance reviewers to provide feedback or reviews for marketing purposes. You can set your own rates and take on as many projects as you like to boost your income.
How It Works:
- Create a profile showcasing your experience with reading and reviewing books.
- Browse through book review job listings and apply to those that match your expertise.
- Freelancers on Upwork can set their own rates, allowing you to scale up your income based on the number of jobs you take.
10. FlexJobs
FlexJobs is a job board that specializes in remote and flexible work, including book reviewing positions. It’s a great resource for finding part-time, freelance, or full-time opportunities in the publishing and editorial space. The platform curates job listings from various companies and allows you to apply directly.
How It Works:
- Sign up for FlexJobs and browse job listings in the book reviewing category.
- Apply for book review jobs, which can range from freelance gigs to longer-term contracts.
- Many jobs on FlexJobs pay well, and consistent freelancers can earn a stable income.
11. NetGalley
NetGalley connects book reviewers with publishers and authors who are looking to generate reviews for upcoming releases. While NetGalley itself does not pay for reviews, many reviewers use the platform to build their reputation and attract paid opportunities on other platforms or freelance sites.
How It Works:
- Sign up for a free account and request books to review.
- Use your NetGalley profile to showcase your review history, and leverage it to find paid gigs elsewhere.
- Over time, you can build your credibility and start earning money from paid reviews.
12. Scribendi
Scribendi is a platform that offers freelance editing and proofreading opportunities, including book editing. While it focuses on editing services, it also provides reviewers with a chance to read and critique books. Experienced reviewers can take on freelance assignments and scale their earnings based on the number of projects they complete.
How It Works:
- Apply as an editor or reviewer, showcasing your skills and experience.
- Once accepted, you’ll receive assignments related to book reviews or editing tasks.
- Payment is made per project, and consistent work can help you achieve your income goals.
13. Writerful Books
Writerful Books specializes in reviewing indie books and works by self-published authors. They are often looking for reviewers who can provide honest feedback and reviews for upcoming titles. If you enjoy reading indie fiction, this could be a good platform to get paid for your reviews.
How It Works:
- Apply to become a reviewer by submitting samples of your work.
- Review books regularly, and get paid for each critique you submit.
- Take on multiple assignments each month to increase your earnings.
14. GetAbstract
GetAbstract hires freelance writers to read and summarize business and non-fiction books. While not strictly a review platform, it offers an opportunity to make money by distilling complex books into easy-to-read summaries for busy professionals. If you enjoy non-fiction, particularly in the areas of business, finance, or self-improvement, this could be a lucrative opportunity.
How It Works:
- Apply as a freelance writer with a background in business or journalism.
- Read assigned books and create concise summaries for GetAbstract’s library.
- Consistent writers can earn a significant income based on the number of summaries they submit.
15. ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange)
ACX connects authors with narrators and reviewers who can help turn books into audiobooks. If you have a good voice and enjoy reading aloud, you can get paid to narrate books. In some cases, you’ll be paid upfront, while in others, you’ll earn a share of the royalties.
How It Works:
- Sign up as a narrator on ACX and browse available book projects.
- Submit audition samples to authors, and if selected, you’ll narrate their book.
- Earn either per project or through a royalty share, which can lead to a steady stream of income.
Final Thoughts
Turning your love of reading into a source of income is not only possible but can also be quite lucrative. From reviewing books to narrating audiobooks, there are numerous ways to monetize your literary passion. By leveraging the opportunities available on these websites, you can work toward earning up to $4,000 per month or more from something you already love doing.