Get paid to read books: 15+ ways
I’m always up for new ways to make money online, and as an avid reader, knowing that people can get paid to read books is such great news.
In this post, we’ll go over 15 different companies that can pay you to read books. Most of these either pay you to read and write a review about a book, to perform audio narration, or to proofread. So several options here, depending on what you prefer to do in your spare time.
Below are over 15 ways to get paid to read books.
Reedsy Discovery
Reedsy Discovery is an online platform that allows reviewers to discover and review indie books. They seek reviewers who have a genuine love for reading, strong writing skills, and the ability to offer insightful critiques.
Pay rate: Voluntary tips. Reedsy Discovery does not provide direct payment for reviews, readers have the opportunity to support reviewers by leaving . Earnings can vary widely depending on the quality and popularity of your reviews, offering potential for both financial compensation and recognition within the book community.
Women’s Review of Books
Women’s Review of Books focuses on reviewing books by and about women. They are interested in reviewers who are knowledgeable about feminist literature and have a critical perspective on gender and social issues.
Pay rate: $100 per review.
The US Review of Books
The US Review of Books is an independent book review publication that hires freelance reviewers. They seek reviewers who possess excellent writing skills, a broad range of reading interests, and a critical eye for analysis.
Pay rate: $25 to $50 per review, depending on the length and complexity of the book.
BookBrowse
BookBrowse is an online magazine that hires freelance reviewers to assess new releases. They are looking for reviewers who can provide well-written, thoughtful reviews that cater to a general readership.
Pay rate: $50 per review, with additional compensation for longer and more in-depth reviews.
Publishers Weekly Select
Publishers Weekly Select is a division of Publishers Weekly that focuses on self-published books. They occasionally hire reviewers for self-published titles and look for individuals with experience in reviewing and knowledge of the self-publishing industry.
Pay rate: Freelance rates. Pay rates can vary depending on the project, negotiated between the reviewer and the author or publisher.
Kirkus Reviews
Kirkus Reviews is a respected book review publication that hires freelance reviewers. They seek individuals with a strong literary background, critical analysis skills, and an ability to meet deadlines. As a reviewer, you’ll have the opportunity to read pre-release titles from a variety of genres and contribute to the literary community.
Pay rate: $50-$100 per review.
Publishers Weekly
Publishers Weekly is a well-known industry publication that hires reviewers for book evaluation. They prefer individuals with prior reviewing experience, excellent writing skills, and a deep understanding of the publishing industry.
Pay rate: > $25 per review. Can increase based on experience and expertise.
OnlineBookClub.org
OnlineBookClub.org is an interactive online community that pays reviewers for sharing their opinions on books. They look for individuals with a passion for reading, strong analytical skills, and the ability to express their thoughts clearly. In addition, members can participate in the “Read and Review” program, receiving free books in exchange for honest feedback.
Pay rate: $5 – $60 per review
Booklist Online
Booklist Online, a publication of the American Library Association, hires freelancers to write reviews for their platform. They seek reviewers with a background in library science, expertise in specific genres, and the ability to provide thoughtful insights.
Pay rate: $15 to $50 per review
NetGalley
NetGalley is an online platform connecting publishers and reviewers. While they don’t provide direct payment for reviews, they offer the chance to access pre-release books in exchange for honest feedback. By establishing relationships with publishers through NetGalley, you can create opportunities for potential paid reviewing gigs and collaborations within the literary industry.
Book Riot
Book Riot is a prominent online platform covering diverse book-related content. While they do not have a specific book review program, they offer paid writing opportunities. They also offer paid opportunities to create Reels and social media content.
Pay rate: Freelance. Rates vary depending on the type and length of the content.
Companies that pay you to read books out loud
ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange)
ACX is an online platform owned by Audible (an Amazon company) that connects authors, publishers, and narrators. The pay rate for narrators on ACX varies depending on the project and the agreement between the narrator and rights holder. It can range from a flat fee to a royalty share arrangement. ACX looks for narrators with a professional recording setup, strong vocal abilities, and the ability to bring characters and stories to life.
Findaway Voices
Findaway Voices is a self-publishing platform that offers audiobook production services. The pay rate for narrators on Findaway Voices is typically based on a royalty share model, where narrators receive a percentage of the sales. They look for narrators who have experience in voice acting, audio production skills, and the ability to deliver high-quality recordings.
Tantor Media
Tantor Media is a leading independent audiobook publisher. The pay rate for narrators at Tantor Media varies depending on the project, but it is typically a flat fee per finished hour of audio. They seek experienced narrators with strong storytelling abilities, versatility in voicing different characters, and professional audio recording equipment.
Penguin Random House Audio
Penguin Random House Audio is one of the largest audiobook publishers in the world. The pay rate for narrators at Penguin Random House Audio also varies depending on the project, and it is typically a flat fee per finished hour. They look for narrators with acting or voiceover experience, excellent storytelling skills, and the ability to capture the essence of the book’s characters.
Blackstone Publishing
Blackstone Publishing is an independent audiobook publisher known for producing a wide range of genres. The pay rate for narrators at Blackstone Publishing is typically a flat fee per finished hour. They seek narrators who can bring depth and emotion to the characters, have a professional recording setup, and are skilled at maintaining consistency throughout the narration.
Where to find proofreading jobs
If you are particularly interested in getting paid to correct grammatical errors. Read this post on how to become a proof-reader. It has a long list of potential proof-reading hiring companies.
Other places to find jobs that pay you to read
- Linkedin : Professional networking site
- Upwork: Freelance Marketplace
- Fiverr : Freelance marketplace
- Flexjobs : Online job board
- Facebook groups: through informal networks and groups.
FAQs
Can I earn money by reading books in other ways?
Certainly! While traditional opportunities for paid book reading, such as becoming a book reviewer or a narrator, may have specific requirements and limited availability, there are other avenues to explore. Here are a few ways you can potentially earn money through your love of reading:
- Become a book influencer or reviewer on social media
- Start a book-related blog or website. If you are new to blogging, follow my step by step tutorial to blogging. You can start a blog for only $2.69 a month. Unlike social media, your blog is an asset that can always be found once someone searches for what you have write about and you can earn you money for life.
- Self-publish your own books
- Offer editing services
- Participate in studies related to books, reading habits, or consumer preferences.