Get Paid to Read Books

Hey, bookworm – let me be the first to tell you that you can get paid to read books!

Strong reading comprehension can earn you some serious coin with the right business model. From casual side hustles to full-blown careers, there are several ways to earn money using your reading prowess.

In my opinion, the very best side hustles are the ones that don’t feel like work at all; they draw on your existing talents and interests to turn hobbies into extra income. 

So, book lovers, this one’s for you. Today, I’m exploring three book-driven careers that require lots of reading (score!). 

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Get Paid to Read and Review Books

Avid readers can be paid for their online reviews of upcoming books. This is a good way to build hype for new titles, generating conversations about the work. Publishers love the organic traffic that these reviews bring.

Where to Find Book Review Jobs

You can find postings for review work on freelance boards like Upwork or Fiverr. 

Other options include submitting to literary magazines or large publishing houses like Penguin or HarperCollins. Publishers often hire in-house reviewers, so check their career pages for current listings. 

Some other companies that specifically hire for book reviews include:

• OnlineBookClub – Offers paid and unpaid book reviews (free books provided). 
• Reedsy – Specializes in indie writers. Get paid for your feedback on works-in-progress.
• Kirkus Reviews – A review magazine that pays for freelance book reviews specializing in indie titles.
• The US Review of Books –  Hires (and pays) professional book reviewers for short reviews of 300-500 words. 
• Booklist – Geared towards librarians and teachers, Booklist pays reviewers $15 per review. 
• NetGalley – Reviews are unpaid, though they provide you with free advanced access to upcoming titles. 

Note that some reviews are unpaid, with free books and early reading access being the only perks. Remember to review listings carefully. 

Necessary Skills

Book reviewers should have:

1. Excellent writing skills – The ability to clearly articulate your thoughts with the professional use of grammar and punctuation. You should have a strong written voice that fits the source you’re writing for. You’ll also need to provide quality summaries without spoiling the book!
2. Strong reading comprehension – The ability to think critically about the book you’re reading, identifying key themes and greater messages. Some knowledge about writing and genre conventions is also helpful. 
3. Work efficiency – The quicker you read, the more your time is worth. You’ll need to develop skills that allow you to read materials quickly while absorbing important information. 

If you’re looking for more information on how to write an excellent book review, try a course through Skillshare like Book Review Writing: Tips, Tricks, and Helpful Hints. 

Get Paid to Read Books as a Book Influencer 

Did you know that there are influencers that get paid to read books and talk about it? Well, now you do!

There are dedicated fan bases for book lovers across social media platforms, with standouts like “Booktube,” “Booktok,” and “Bookstagram.”

Reading influencers dedicate their platform to talking about the books they’re loving (or hating), sharing reviews, engaging in reading challenges, sharing book hauls, and more. 

Necessary Skills

Book influencers need a range of creative and tech-based skills, including:

1. Knowledge of social media platforms – While you don’t need to be an expert on all things social media, you should have an excellent grasp on your platform of choice. This means staying on top of current trends, using trending audio and hashtags, and some basic SEO knowledge for captions.
2. Photography and video production – You’ll need to create captivating, visually pleasing content for your viewers. Knowledge of filming and editing is essential. You should also know how to make custom graphics for thumbnails and static posts; Canva is a great tool for this.
3. Storytelling – While you’ll be reviewing other stories, your personal voice is just as important. Strong storytelling skills will help your community engage with your content and the books you’re discussing.

How to Make Money as a Book Influencer

Book influencers get paid to read books through several outlets, including:

• Affiliate marketing through programs like Amazon Associates, YouTube, or TikTok
• Membership exclusive content through paid subscriptions like Patreon or Substack
• Ad revenue through Google AdSense 
• Pay-by-view through platform-specific programs
• Sponsorships from authors, publishers, and more
• Branded merchandise reflecting your book community 

Get Paid to Read Books as a Proofreader 

Proofreaders can get paid to read books in their liminal stage, checking for errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and more. 

Unlike editors who edit for large-scale themes, proofreaders focus on the small details.

You can find more information on How to Become a Proofreader here. 

Necessary Skills

Proofreaders don’t need formal education or experience in publishing. Instead, they need a range of skills, including: 

1. Attention to detail is a necessary asset, helping you catch even the smallest mistakes
2. A strong knowledge of writing conventions, including grammar, punctuation, and spelling
3. A broad vocabulary to aid in reading comprehension
4. Knowledge of major style guides to ensure accuracy
5. Excellent reading comprehension
6. Digital proficiency

Where to Find Proofreader Work

You can work through an agency or as a freelance proofreader, depending on your preference. Either way, you’ll want to develop an online portfolio where future clients and employers can find you. 

Squarespace is an easy way to create a professional online portfolio. Be sure to include writing samples, testimonials, and contact information.

Beyond your professional website, you can find proofreader work through:

• Job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, or ZipRecruiter
• Freelance sites like Fiverr, Upwork, and Flexjobs
• In-house positions through publishing companies 
• Specialty proofreading platforms like Gramlee, Scribendi, Scribrr, and Reedsy

Pizza Hut BOOK IT! Program

While this isn’t paid, this is a great program for children to join.

Pizza Hut has a free program that encourages children to read and be rewarded with a free personal pan pizza.

You might have participated in this same program as a child – I did!

Whether you’re child attends school or is homeschooled, you can sign up your child in this program.

Final Thoughts: How to Get Paid to Read Books

Getting paid to do something you love is my definition of a worthwhile career. If you adore reading and have a strong knowledge of the written word, why not get paid for it?

Whether you choose to write casual book reviews or go all-in as a full-time book influencer, there is a world of profitable possibilities for reading fanatics. 

Looking for more exciting side hustles? Check out my Epic List of Side Hustle Ideas.