What if you could turn your love for books into a way to make money? It’s not just a dream – many people have figured out how to get paid for reading books.
Today, companies are ready to pay well for readers who can give helpful reviews and feedback on different books. Whether you’re a book lover, a stay-at-home parent, or just looking to earn extra money, this could be your chance to earn some cash.
In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll show you five legitimate websites where you can make up to $100 or more per hour by reading books.
We’ll look closely at each site, including how they pay, what they need from you, and how to apply. We’ll also share tips to help you earn more and handle any challenges.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- What it’s like to work in the book reading industry
- Details about five high-paying book reading websites
- Tips to increase your earnings
- How to deal with common problems and stay ahead
Let’s dive into this exciting way to make money with your reading skills!
About the Book Reading Industry
Before we jump into the websites where you can get paid well for reading books, let’s first understand how this industry works. The book reading world has changed a lot with digital publishing and a growing need for different types of content.
Companies are always looking for people who can give helpful feedback on manuscripts, audiobooks, and published books.
These jobs are more than just reading for fun – they need careful thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to share your thoughts clearly.
Here are some types of book reading jobs you might find:
- Beta Reading: Reviewing early drafts of books and giving feedback on the plot, characters, and how easy it is to read.
- Proofreading: Checking texts for spelling, grammar, and formatting mistakes.
- Audiobook Narration: Using your voice to read books aloud for audio versions.
- Book Reviewing: Writing detailed reviews for publishers, authors, or review sites.
- Sensitivity Reading: Looking for cultural mistakes, stereotypes, or anything that could be offensive.
- Fact-Checking: Making sure the information in non-fiction books is accurate.
Each job requires different skills and pays different amounts.
The websites we’ll look at offer some of the best-paying reading jobs, with rates up to $100 per hour for skilled readers.
Keep in mind, these jobs can be very rewarding but also need dedication, professionalism, and a real love for reading. You need to be able to meet deadlines, provide useful feedback, and keep information confidential.
Now, let’s check out the top websites where you can make money reading books.
5 Best Websites to Get Paid Reading Books
1. BookBrowse
BookBrowse is a well-established platform that connects avid readers with publishers and authors seeking insightful reviews and feedback.
BookBrowse offers a unique opportunity for book lovers to earn money by reading and reviewing books before they hit the market.
They specialize in literary fiction and compelling non-fiction titles.
Payment Details: While rates can vary depending on the project, experienced reviewers can earn up to $100 per hour. Payment is typically made per review, with longer, more in-depth reviews commanding higher rates.
Requirements:
- Excellent writing skills
- Critical thinking ability
- Familiarity with various genres
- Ability to meet deadlines
- Previous reviewing experience (preferred but not always required)
How to Apply:
Visit the BookBrowse website and look for their “Become a Reviewer” section. You’ll need to submit a sample review and your reading preferences. Be prepared to showcase your writing skills and passion for literature.
2. Kirkus Media
Kirkus Media is a respected name in the book industry, known for its honest and insightful reviews. Kirkus offers opportunities for both English and Spanish language book reviews. They cover a wide range of genres, from children’s books to complex academic texts.
Payment Details: Kirkus is known to pay up to $60 per review, which typically translates to about $100 per hour for efficient readers. Reviews are usually around 350 words and are expected to be completed within 2-3 weeks of receiving the book.
Requirements:
- Strong writing skills
- Ability to summarize and critique effectively
- Meet strict deadlines
- Expertise in specific genres (for specialized reviews)
How to Apply:
Check the Kirkus website for current openings.
They often look for reviewers in specific genres. You’ll need to submit your resume, writing samples, and specify your areas of expertise.
3. Online Book Club
Online Book Club is a community-driven platform that offers paid reviewing opportunities alongside a vibrant book discussion forum. This website provides a unique blend of community engagement and professional reviewing. Reviewers start with lower-paying gigs but can quickly advance to higher-paying opportunities.
Payment Details:
While entry-level reviews may pay less, experienced reviewers can earn up to $60 per review. For fast readers, this can equate to $100 per hour.
Plus, you get to keep the books you review.
Requirements:
- Ability to write detailed, thoughtful reviews
- Active participation in the community
- Consistent output and reliability
- Familiarity with various genres
How to Apply: Sign up on the Online Book Club website and start by submitting unpaid reviews to build your reputation. As you gain experience and positive feedback, you’ll be offered paid opportunities.
4. NetGalley
NetGalley is a service that connects book reviewers, bloggers, and media professionals with digital galley proofs from publishers. While NetGalley itself doesn’t pay reviewers, it provides access to advance reading copies (ARCs) of books. Savvy reviewers use this platform to source content for their high-paying review gigs elsewhere.
Payment Details: Earnings potential varies as you’re not paid directly by NetGalley.
However, by leveraging the free books from NetGalley for paid review opportunities on other platforms, skilled reviewers can easily earn $100 per hour.
Requirements:
- Professional online presence (blog, social media, etc.)
- Consistent reviewing history
- Ability to provide honest, constructive feedback
How to Apply:
Create a profile on NetGalley, highlighting your reviewing experience and online presence. Once approved, you can request books that interest you and fit your expertise.
5. Writerful Books
Writerful Books is an Australian-based company that offers various services to authors, including paid book reviews. This platform connects reviewers with authors seeking feedback on their work. They offer opportunities for both fiction and non-fiction reviews.
Payment Details: Writerful Books pays reviewers between $50 to $100 per review, depending on the length and complexity of the book. For efficient readers and reviewers, this can easily translate to $100 per hour.
Requirements:
- Strong analytical skills
- Ability to provide constructive criticism
- Meet deadlines consistently
- Expertise in specific genres is a plus
How to Apply:
Visit the Writerful Books website and look for their “Become a Reviewer” section. You’ll need to submit your details, including your areas of expertise and writing samples.
| Website | Payment Range | Genres | Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| BookBrowse | Up to $100/hour | Literary fiction, Non-fiction | Submit sample review |
| Kirkus Media | $60/review (≈$100/hour) | Various, including Spanish | Apply for specific openings |
| Online Book Club | Up to $60/review | Various | Start with unpaid reviews |
| NetGalley | Varies (source for paid gigs) | Various | Create professional profile |
| Writerful Books | $50-$100/review | Fiction, Non-fiction | Submit details and samples |
Now that we’ve explored these lucrative opportunities, let’s discuss how you can maximize your earnings in this field – getting paid for reading books.
Some Quick Tips for Maximizing Your Earnings
To truly earn money reading books at the highest rates, you’ll need to hone your skills and work efficiently. Here are some tips to help you maximize your earnings:
Improve Your Reading Speed and Comprehension
The faster you can read and understand a book, the more reviews you can complete, increasing your hourly rate. Try these techniques:
- Practice skimming and scanning techniques
- Use a finger or a guide to maintain focus
- Read in chunks rather than word-by-word
- Take short breaks to maintain concentration
| Technique | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Skimming | Quickly moving your eyes over text to get main ideas | Saves time on less important sections |
| Chunking | Reading groups of words together | Increases overall reading speed |
| Active Reading | Engaging with the text through notes and questions | Improves comprehension and retention |
| Speed Reading Apps | Using apps designed to train faster reading | Gradually increases reading speed over time |
Develop a Review Template
Create a basic template for your reviews to streamline the writing process.
Include sections for:
- Brief summary
- Character analysis
- Plot evaluation
- Writing style assessment
- Overall impression and rating
Customize this template for each website’s specific requirements.
Specialize in High-Demand Genres
Some genres, like business books or academic texts, often pay more for reviews. Develop expertise in these areas to command higher rates.
Build a Strong Online Presence
Maintain a blog or active social media accounts where you discuss books. This can lead to additional opportunities and higher-paying gigs.
Building relationships in the industry can also lead to consistent work and better-paying opportunities. Set aside dedicated time for reading and reviewing. Treat it like a job, and you’ll see your earnings increase. Also, consider taking courses in creative writing or literary analysis to improve the quality of your reviews.
Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them
While earning money reading books can be rewarding, it’s not without its challenges. Here are some common obstacles and strategies to overcome them:
1. High Competition
With many book lovers vying for these opportunities, standing out can be tough.
Solution: Continuously improve your skills, specialize in niche genres, and build a strong portfolio of reviews.
2. Inconsistent Work
The flow of review opportunities can be unpredictable.
Solution: Diversify your income streams by working with multiple platforms and consider supplementing with related work like proofreading or editing.
3. Balancing Quality and Speed
Meeting deadlines while providing thoughtful, quality reviews can be challenging.
Solution: Develop a efficient review process, use templates, and practice time management techniques.
4. Maintaining Objectivity
It’s easy to let personal preferences influence your reviews.
Solution: Develop a systematic approach to evaluating books, considering multiple aspects beyond just your personal enjoyment.
5. Dealing with Difficult Books
Not every book you’re assigned will be enjoyable or easy to read.
Solution: Approach each book as a learning opportunity. Develop strategies for engaging with different types of content.
By expecting these challenges and using these solutions, you’ll be better prepared to become successful in your book reading career.
Conclusion – Get Paid Reading Books
The world of paid book reading offers a great chance to turn your love for books into a rewarding career. With some platforms paying up to $100 per hour for skilled readers, it’s a path worth considering for book lovers and word enthusiasts.
Keep in mind, success in this field takes time as usual. It requires hard work, improving your skills, and a real passion for books. Start by applying to the websites we’ve talked about, and make sure to provide high-quality reviews regularly.
As you build your reputation and get better at your job, you’ll find more opportunities opening up, possibly leading to even higher-paying roles in the publishing world.
