Are you an avid reader? Today, there are several ways to get paid to read books and share your insights.
Here is a quick story for you before we begin the post.
Reading is my passion, too. About a decade back when I was trying to switch careers, I couldn't spend much on books due to my financial situation.
So I devoted my free time to blogging about books obtained from the library and book review platforms like BlogAdda.
To my surprise, I was soon reached out by book clubs and authors to review new books on my personal blog. In return, I received free copies of books that I might not have had the opportunity to read otherwise.
It was such an enjoyable experience getting paid to read books.
If you are a book lover, you can get paid to read books easily. Yes, that is what we are going to explore in this post.
So, let's discover how to get paid to read books!
20 Best Websites To Get Paid To Read Books
Getting paid to read books allows you to indulge in your love of reading while exploring various genres, discovering new authors, and broadening your literary horizons.
Here are the best platforms to get paid to read books:
1) Reedsy
Reedsy is a versatile platform that connects authors with book reviewers. It helps authors get their work discovered through reviews.
One of the best features of Reedsy is to get paid for reviewing books. It is a great opportunity to explore if you own a book-related blog or a channel.
Through Reedsy's Book Review program, you can get advanced copies of the latest titles to read and share your honest opinions with publishers, authors, and readers alike.
How do you become a book reviewer on Reedsy Discovery?
When you sign up as a book reviewer on Reedsy, you get access to new stories waiting to be discovered. Authors can also contact you directly to read and review their work.
To become a book reviewer on this platform, you just have to create your account and provide information such as:
the number of books you read per year
the genres you review
your preferred format of reviewing - written text/video
your blog/channel information
sample review
How do you get paid to read books on Reedsy Discovery?
At Reedsy, you can monetize your reading habit without any hassle.
Your published reviews will be displayed under your profile. When your readers read your reviews, they have the option to gift you an amount as a token of appreciation for your work.
The tips you earn will be sent to you via Stripe.
You also receive free copies of books before they are launched.
Read the Reedsy Discovery - FAQs to learn more about getting paid to read books on this platform.
By participating in Reedsy's Book Review program, you can get paid to read books while making a meaningful impact on the world of publishing. Don't you agree?
2) Booklist
Booklist is a platform that helps schools and libraries pick the best books for their readers.
Becoming a reviewer at Booklist is one of the best ways to get paid to read books.
This platform is also a part of the American Library Association, so undoubtedly it is legitimate.
How much does Booklist pay for reviews?
On average, you can write around two to three reviews a month.
Booklist pays you $15 per published review. If you reject a title, you get $5 as your reject fee.
Not only that, you also get a free subscription to the Booklist magazine.
How to become a book reviewer at Booklist?
To become a book reviewer at Booklist, you need to fill out an application and mention your areas of interest.
You also need to send samples of your work.
If you have a library degree or related experience, it is considered a huge plus!
3) Online Book Club
Online Book Club is another platform to get paid to read books.
You can sign up on the platform to receive free books in exchange for your honest review. Your review must be of at least 300 words and without any spoilers.
How much does the Online Book Club pay?
You will be given a free book as part of your first review. Your subsequent reviews will be paid on a per-review basis.
As a member of the Online Book Club platform, you can also participate in their free daily sweepstakes and win cash prizes.
Online Book Club processes payment via PayPal.
4) BookBrowse
BookBrowse is a comprehensive book review and recommendation platform for book lovers.
It curates a diverse selection of the latest and most acclaimed titles across a wide range of genres.
You can also get paid to read books on this platform if you are US-based.
To become a book reviewer at BookBrowse, you need to apply by submitting two sample reviews of at least 300 words.
By submitting thoughtful, well-crafted reviews, you can earn a modest payment on this platform.
So, if you are an avid reader looking to earn a little extra while indulging in your literary passions, BookBrowse is certainly worth exploring.
5) The US Review of Books
The US Review of Books is another book review platform to get paid to read books.
How to become a book reviewer at The US Review of Books?
If you are a freelance writer who can craft a thoughtful and insightful review, then you can reach out to them with your resume, sample reviews, and professional references.
Your reviews submitted on this platform must be of at least 250 - 300 words.
How do you get paid to read books at The US Review of Books?
This platform pays its reviewers every month. For the reviews you submit in a month, you get paid the following month via check.
6) New Pages
New Pages is not exactly a 'get paid to read books' program. This website gives opportunities for kids to publish their reviews on what they have enjoyed reading recently.
It accepts short reviews - 200 words maximum.
For those who want to improve their review writing skills, New Pages is a great platform to consider.
So why not let your kids read books and share their opinions on New Pages?
7) EBookFairs
EBookFairs is a platform that organizes virtual book fairs and helps authors reach a wide range of audiences.
It also offers a book review service in which you can sign up and get paid to read books.
By becoming a paid book reviewer at EBookFairs, you can read a variety of books and get paid for reviewing them.
Your review must be at least 200 words long and posted on your social media, GoodReads, or book review site.
How much do you get paid to read books at EBookFairs?
Your first two reviews for EBookFairs will be unpaid. After that, you will be paid $10 per review.
You can get paid to review a maximum of 5 books on this platform.
Note that some books including those under 100 pages available for review on EBookFairs may not be eligible for payment.
8) My Reader Rewards Club
My Reader Rewards Club works like a rewards platform but with a bookish focus.
This is a unique way to get paid to read books - you get free books and Bibles by earning points for various activities.
As a member of this platform, you earn points to:
share the book titles you have discovered
shopping at Tyndale, NavPress, or HendricksonRose
share your birthday
subscribing to e-newsletters
review products from the website
take surveys
invite your friend
You can redeem your points for books whenever you desire. Isn't this an interesting way to get paid to read books?
9) getAbstract
getAbstract is a unique website with a simple premise - it summarizes the key insights from a vast library of books, allowing users to quickly gain essential knowledge from each title.
This platform also offers a compelling opportunity to get paid to read books.
How to get paid to read books on getAbstract?
Getting paid to read books on getAbstract is a simple process. You just need to sign up on the getAbstract website, complete a brief application, and submit a sample summary along with your CV.
Your summary must be of 50 to 150 words.
Once accepted into the program, you become a freelance writer at getAbstract. You can then start earning money by reading and providing summaries.
You can also join their affiliate program and earn commissions for successful referrals.
10) NetGalley
NetGalley is a powerful digital review service that connects book publishers, authors, and readers.
It is a fun platform that allows publishers to share advance copies of their books with reviewers, bloggers, and influencers.
If you are a book reviewer or an influencer, you can make use of this great opportunity to get paid to read books and review them.
NetGalley doesn't pay you any direct monetary compensation for reading books.
As a member of this platform, you are granted free early access to highly anticipated titles in exchange for honest reviews.
By discovering and reading books through this platform, you can:
generate pre-release buzz
share your opinion with your audience
monetize your review through your website or social media.
Read the NetGalley - Help section to learn more about their guidelines and processes.
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11) BookBarbarian
Book Barbarian is an online platform that offers a vast selection of sci-fi and fantasy e-books for book enthusiasts.
All you need to do is sign up to receive daily emails on book deals. You will receive an email every day from which you can discover and download books.
You can read these books from your smartphone, tablet, or e-reader.
Many books are free and the rest are available for as low as $0.99!
The best part of this platform is that it recommends only best-sellers and top-rated books.
You can keep the books for yourself, read them, and provide reviews on your website or social media.
Regarding the 'getting paid to read books' part? You can monetize your reviews through ads and affiliate marketing.
12) Free Booksy
Another way to get paid to read books is by getting free books from Free Booksy.
Free Booksy is a valuable resource for avid readers and book reviewers who are looking to discover new authors and genres without having to pay for every book.
By signing up for this platform, you receive recommendations straight to your inbox.
You can explore and download over 20 genres of free ebooks through Free Booksy. And also find amazing deals that you don't want to miss!
So, what are you waiting for? Read free books through Free Booksy, share your reviews on your blog or social media, and monetize your traffic!
13) Book Sirens
BookSirens is a platform that connects readers with authors and publishers, providing an opportunity to discover and read new books.
By signing up as a book reviewer on this platform, you can get Advance Reader Copies (ARC) for free. In exchange, you need to provide your honest review on platforms like Amazon, GoodReads, your book blog, or social media.
You can receive books in your preferred format - PDF, Mobi, or ePub. If you have a large following, authors may reach out to you directly and also send you physical books.
Book Sirens is not a typical 'get paid to read books' portal. It offers an interesting way to grow your following.
The more influence you have, the more ways you can find to get paid to read. Don't you agree?
Get Paid To Read Books Aloud
If you have an interest in reading books aloud, you can narrate audiobooks and make money. Note that you may have to invest in setting up your home studio with a computer and microphone for recording audiobooks.
Here are some platforms where you can get paid to read audiobooks as a narrator:
14) ACX
To get paid to read books as a narrator at ACX, you need to:
create your profile and add your voice samples
audition for your preferred projects
set your pricing - per hour basis or royalty share
record and deliver the audiobook
Once your audiobook narration is approved, it will be distributed across Amazon, Audible, and iTunes.
15) Voices com
Voices is a platform where you can get paid to read books through audiobook narration gigs.
To get paid to read audiobooks on Voices com, you need to:
create your profile with guest membership (free) or premium membership (paid)
find your audiobook project
sign your job agreement
read and record your audiobook
Voices (dot) com sends you your earnings via PayPal. On average, you can make $200-$300 per finished hour.
16) Voice123
Voice123 is another platform where you can get paid to read books aloud as an audiobook narrator.
To become an audiobook narrator at Voice123, you need to:
sign up with your information such as language, age, gender, etc.
submit auditions
find audiobook projects
set your pricing
get paid
17) VO Planet
VO Planet is another platform to get paid to read books aloud as a narrator.
This site hires only professional voice talent, so this may not be a good place to check out if you are a beginner.
18) Voice Crafters
Voice Crafters is a company that provides voice-over services in over 80 languages.
You can sign up on this platform as a voice talent and get paid to read books aloud as an audiobook narrator.
This platform offers $200 to $500/hr for every completed and edited audio hour. For unedited audiobook reading, it pays $225.
19) Backstage
Backstage is another casting company where you can get paid to read audiobooks.
You need to sign up and provide your voice samples when creating your profile.
Note that you need to pay a subscription fee before being able to find jobs on this portal.
20) Freelance Platforms
Another option to get paid to read books aloud is to sign up as an audiobook narrator on freelance platforms such as People Per Hour, Fiverr, or Upwork.
You can create your profile, set your rates, and start reading for money!
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Other Ways To Get Paid To Read Books
If you are looking for a serious career in the world of books, here are the types of jobs that will require you to read books:
1) Beta Reader / Book Reviewer for ARCs:
Beta Readers or book reviewers for ARCs (Advance Reader Copies) are people who are given access to unpublished manuscripts or early copies of books before their official release.
As a book reviewer for ARCs, you have the chance to read and evaluate books that the general public has not yet seen. You will thus have the privilege to offer valuable input to authors and publishers before the book has been released.
For example, you may have to identify:
plot holes
character inconsistencies
pacing issues
areas that require further development
To become a beta reader, you need to reach out to publishers, book review websites, etc., and express your interest.
In this process, you may need to provide:
writing samples
a review portfolio
information about your social media presence and engagement, if any
For example, BookSirens is one such platform where you can receive ARCs for review.
Isn't this an exciting way to get paid to read books while playing a valuable role in the publishing industry?
2) Book Editor / Proofreader
Another interesting way to get paid to read books is by becoming a proofreader.
A book proofreader is a professional who specializes in meticulously reviewing written material, such as books, manuscripts, and publications.
As a book proofreader, you need to:
identify and correct errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, etc.
verify the formatting of the book
provide clear and concise feedback to authors or publishers
ensure the quality and accuracy of the books to be published
To become a proofreader, a solid foundation in writing and editing through a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field is preferred.
If you are an aspiring book proofreader, you can also enhance your qualifications through training programs from professional organizations such as the Editorial Freelancers Association or the American Copy Editors Society.
3) Translator
If you are bilingual and have a strong command over languages, you can get paid to read books and translate them!
A book translator is a professional who specializes in converting the written content of a book from one language into another.
To become a book translator, a bachelor's degree in linguistics, translation studies, or a related field is highly preferred.
If you are an aspiring book translator, you can hone your skills by gaining experience through:
internships
freelance projects from platforms such as TranslatorsCafe, Proz, etc.
entry-level positions at publishing houses or translation agencies
4) Book Layout Designer
An interesting way to get paid to read books by clubbing your artistic and technical skills is by becoming a Book Layout Designer.
A Book Layout Designer is a professional who takes care of the overall visual and structural design of a book.
As a Book Layout Designer, you will be tasked with arranging the elements of a book, such as text, images, graphics, etc. in a visually appealing way.
You can take up freelance work, in-house positions, or consulting work to design the layout based on the book's content and the publisher's requirements.
To become a Book Layout Designer, you need to have:
Strong understanding of typography, layout, and design principles
Proficiency in design software like Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.
Familiarity with the publishing industry and book production processes
What an exciting way to get paid to read books and help with the visual design of the books!
5) Illustrator
Another way to get paid to read books is to use your artistic talent and become an illustrator.
A book illustrator is a visual artist who creates illustrations, drawings, or other visual elements that accompany and enhance the written content of a book.
To become a book illustrator, you may need a degree in illustration, fine arts, or a related field.
As a book illustrator, you need to collaborate with authors/publishers and understand the tone and style of the book.
Depending on your skills, you can use different illustration styles such as cartoon, comic, sketch, etc., and artistic techniques such as freehand digital, vector art, watercolor, etc.
Isn't it fun to get paid to read books and show your artistic skills?
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FAQs - Get Paid To Read Books:
#1. Can I earn money by reading books?
Yes! From publishing houses to online platforms, many companies offer paid book review opportunities, as discussed in this post.
These companies appreciate the value that avid readers can bring to their content evaluation and marketing efforts.
Additionally, you can create content on your blog or social media about the books you read and make money.
Even if you can not make a living out of it, it is worth pursuing in your spare time.
#2. How much can I earn by getting paid to read books?
The earning potential for reading books can vary significantly, depending on your role and the organization involved.
In general, book reviewers may earn a few dollars per book. However, for in-depth analyses or specialized expertise, you can command higher rates.
Similarly, if you have a strong portfolio of book reviews or have a huge following, you can demand better rates.
#3. What qualifications do I need to get paid to read books?
Most 'get paid to read books' programs don't have specific requirements.
While some positions may require specific subject matter expertise or writing skills, many opportunities are open to passionate readers with a keen eye for detail and a love for literature.
#4. What company will pay you $200 to read a book?
A company called WordsRated used to pay $200 for every book read in their Bibiliophile-at-large program. However, the program is permanently closed.
#5. Is getting paid to read legit?
Yes, there are legitimate ways to get paid to read books, as discussed in this post.
Book review platforms connect you with authors/publishers and compensate for your time and honest review.
You can also take up audiobook reading jobs as a freelancer and get paid legally.
Final Thoughts - Get Paid To Read Books
Getting paid to read books is a viable and enticing option for book lovers.
If you are an avid reader looking to monetize your passion, don't hesitate to explore the world of getting paid to read books – it just might be the perfect fit for you.
By understanding the available opportunities and the earning potential, you can take the first steps toward turning your passion for reading into a rewarding and lucrative profession.
So, are you ready to appreciate the wonder of the written word and get paid to read books?
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