If you’re an avid reader who enjoys discovering new books and sharing your thoughts with others, you may be able to turn your passion for literature into a side income. Many websites offer opportunities to get paid for reading books and writing honest reviews. Here are the top 15+ sites where you can earn money by reading and reviewing books.
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OnlineBookClub.org
OnlineBookClub.org is a popular platform where you can get paid to read books and write reviews. Members receive free books in exchange for honest reviews, with payments ranging from $5 to $60 per review. Although the first review is unpaid to ensure quality, subsequent reviews can provide a steady stream of income for avid readers.
Kirkus Reviews
Kirkus Reviews is a well-respected book review publication that hires freelance reviewers to write book reviews for their website and magazine. Reviewers are paid a flat fee per review and can choose from a wide variety of titles. With a preference for experienced reviewers, having a background in journalism, literature, or a related field can be an advantage.
Publishers Weekly
Publishers Weekly is a leading publication in the book industry, offering paid opportunities for book reviewers. They are particularly interested in reviewers with expertise in specific genres and subject areas. Reviewers are paid a flat fee per review and have access to pre-release titles from various publishers.
Booklist Online
Booklist Online, a publication of the American Library Association, hires freelance reviewers to write book reviews for their website and magazine. They are interested in reviewers with expertise in specific genres and subject areas. Compensation varies, and reviewers are provided with review copies of the books.
Reedsy Discovery
Reedsy Discovery is a platform that connects authors with readers and reviewers. Reviewers receive free access to pre-release books and are paid a small fee per review. In addition, reviewers can earn tips from readers who appreciate their reviews, potentially increasing their income.
NetGalley
NetGalley is a platform that provides reviewers with free access to pre-release titles from various publishers. While not offering direct payment for reviews, reviewers can receive digital copies of books in exchange for honest reviews. This can be a great way to discover new books and build your reviewing portfolio.
The U.S. Review of Books
The U.S. Review of Books hires freelance book reviewers to write reviews for their website. Reviewers are paid a flat fee per review and can choose from a wide range of titles. To apply, submit a resume, writing sample, and a list of your preferred genres and areas of expertise.
Bethany House
Bethany House is a Christian publisher that offers book reviewers the opportunity to receive free books in exchange for honest reviews. While they do not pay directly for reviews, receiving free books can be a valuable perk for avid readers and fans of Christian literature.
Moody Press
Moody Press, another Christian publisher, offers book reviewers free books in exchange for honest reviews. Reviewers can choose from a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books. While there is no direct payment for reviews, free books can save avid readers a significant amount of money.
Book Browse
Book Browse is an online book review platform that hires freelance reviewers to write reviews for their website. Compensation varies, and reviewers are provided with review copies of the books. To apply, submit a resume, writing sample, and a list of your preferred genres and areas of expertise.
Women’s Review of Books
The Women’s Review of Books is a publication that focuses on reviewing books written by and about women. They hire freelance book reviewers and pay a flat fee per review. To apply, submit a resume, writing samples, and a list of your preferred genres and subject areas related to women’s issues and literature.
Instaread
Instaread is a platform that provides summaries and analysis of popular books. They hire freelance writers to create summaries and pay a flat fee per summary. While not strictly focused on book reviews, this opportunity allows you to read and analyze books while earning money.
GetAbstract
GetAbstract is another platform that specializes in providing summaries and analysis of non-fiction books. They hire freelance writers to create summaries and pay a flat fee per summary. Like Instaread, this opportunity allows you to read and analyze books while earning money.
Writerful Books
Writerful Books is a platform that connects authors with book reviewers. They pay reviewers based on the quality and depth of their reviews, with payments ranging from $10 to $50 per review. To apply, submit a sample book review and a list of your preferred genres.
Any Subject Books
Any Subject Books is a platform that hires freelance book reviewers for honest and detailed reviews. They pay reviewers based on the length and complexity of the book, with payments made via PayPal. To apply, submit a resume, writing samples, and a list of your preferred genres and subject areas.
Bonus: Goodreads and Amazon
While not specifically paying for book reviews, building a strong presence on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon can lead to indirect income opportunities. By creating a dedicated book blog or YouTube channel, you can monetize your content through affiliate marketing, sponsored content, or ad revenue. Additionally, building a reputation as a trusted reviewer can open doors to freelance reviewing opportunities with various publications.
Conclusion:
There are numerous platforms and publications that offer opportunities to get paid for reading books and writing reviews. While some provide direct payment for reviews, others offer free books or other perks as compensation. By exploring these options and honing your reviewing skills, you can turn your love for literature into a rewarding side income.
So, whether you choose OnlineBookClub.org, Kirkus Reviews, Publishers Weekly, Booklist Online, Reedsy Discovery, NetGalley, The U.S. Review of Books, Bethany House, Moody Press, Book Browse, Women’s Review of Books, Instaread, GetAbstract, Writerful Books, Any Subject Books, or build your presence on Goodreads and Amazon, start reading and sharing your thoughts with the world while earning money.