Get Paid to Read Books: 11 Companies that actually pay!

Love getting lost in a good book?

Turns out, your passion for reading could actually translate into some extra cash! If you’re the kind of person who can breeze through a novel and then can’t wait to dissect it – the plot, the characters, the whole vibe – guess what?

You can totally get paid to do that!

Okay, so you’re probably wondering, “How do I actually make this book-loving money magic happen?” Do I need, like, a fancy degree in book stuff? Tons of special training?

The good news is, not really! Here’s what you DO need:

1. Be a total bookworm. This isn’t just a casual hobby – you live and breathe books. Library? Your second home. Bookstore release day? You’re there, hyped.
2. Have decent writing skills. You’ve read the book, now you’ve gotta share your thoughts. Clear, concise writing that gets your point across is key. Editors are busy, they’ll love you for it! That Book Trust guide is actually super helpful for review basics.
3. Bonus Points: Having a few sample reviews, a basic resume, and maybe even a simple blog to showcase your work can be a HUGE help when hunting for gigs. It’s basically showing publishers, “Hey, I’m legit, and I love this!”

OKAY, BUT HOW MUCH MONEY ARE WE REALLY TALKING ABOUT?

Let’s be honest – you’re investing time and brainpower into reading and reviewing books, so it’s totally fair to wonder about the payoff. Unfortunately, there’s no simple answer, and it depends on a few factors:

1. Your Experience: When you’re just starting, you might only get free books in exchange for reviews. That’s actually a good way to build your portfolio! As you gain experience and a reputation, you can start negotiating for payment.
2. The Publication: Smaller blogs or websites have tighter budgets. Big-name publications, like the ones with fancy offices in New York, can pay a few hundred dollars per review – if you can snag those gigs.
3. Full-time vs. Side Hustle: There are some full-time, in-house book reviewer positions at major publications, but those are competitive. For most people, book reviewing is a way to turn their passion into a side hustle, earning some extra cash on top of their main job.

Getting paid to read sounds amazing, but it’s important to be realistic. Book reviewing can be a fun way to get free books and some pocket money, but it’s unlikely to replace a full-time income right away.

BUT WAIT! There’s another path…

If you’re passionate about books and enjoy writing, starting your OWN blog could be your ticket to more serious money-making potential. I know because I actually make a full-time living from blogging! It takes work, but the payoff can be huge. Want some tips? Here’s my guide on how to start a blog and build it into a profitable side hustle (or even a full-time gig!).

Top Companies that Pay you to Read Books

Alright, let’s cut to the chase! Here’s where you can find those book review gigs that actually put some cash in your pocket. We’ll dive into the top publishers, their usual pay rates, what they’re looking for, and give you a feel for what it’s like to work with them.

1. OnlineBookClub: A Great Place to Start

If you’re looking to dip your toes into paid book reviews, Online Book Club is a solid option. They’ve got a huge catalog of books to choose from, and the signup process is super straightforward. Here’s how it works:

Your first review is like a tryout. You’ll get a free book and the chance to prove your review skills, but there’s no payment yet.

Once you’re approved, every review you write earns you between $5-$60, PLUS you keep the book. That’s a win-win for bookworms!

The Sweet Bonus: Rack up 30 reviews, and they’ll throw in a $25 Amazon gift card. Think of it as fuel for your next book-buying spree!

Why Online Book Club is Beginner-Friendly:

• Wide Selection: They’ve got tons of books, so you’re likely to find something you’re actually excited to read.
• Good for Building a Portfolio: Even if the pay isn’t huge, it’s a way to get published reviews under your belt, which can help you land better-paying gigs later.

2. Reedsy Discovery: Your Ticket to Hot New Books (and Beyond!)

Want to be on the cutting edge, reading amazing books before anyone else? Reedsy Discovery is your in! They specialize in connecting reviewers with self-published authors, giving you access to a whole world of undiscovered gems.

Let’s be real, you might not get rich at first – think tips from authors rather than big payments.

Build a solid reputation on Reedsy, and you could snag direct deals with authors for more serious review work. Think of it as a stepping stone!

Why Reedsy Discovery is Worth Checking Out:

• Discover Hidden Gems: You’ll find books you’d never stumble upon in a regular bookstore.
• Build Your Network: Impress an author, and you might land ongoing paid gigs with them.
• Be Part of Something New: Help indie authors get the recognition they deserve!

3. Kirkus Media: Your Path to Amazon Reviews

Want your book reviews to actually be seen by tons of readers? Kirkus Media is a major player, and their reviews often show up right on Amazon.

They Hire Regularly: Keep an eye on their job postings, this is a good spot to land a gig.

Experience Matters: In your application, play up any relevant writing or reviewing background – it’ll boost your chances.

The Work: Once you’re in, you get tons of book choices, but you’ve got a 350-word review due within two weeks.

Payment amount isn’t public, and you’ll receive a check 60 days after submission.

Why Kirkus is Worth Considering:

• Amazon Exposure: Your reviews reach a HUGE audience of potential book buyers.
• Industry Cred: Kirkus is a respected name, good for your reviewer resume.
• Stepping Stone: Prove yourself here, and you could open doors to other paid review opportunities.

4. BookBrowse: For Book Lovers Who Like to Share Their Finds

If the idea of steering fellow readers towards amazing books gets you excited, BookBrowse is worth exploring. They’re dedicated to well-written, insightful reviews that help people discover gems they might otherwise miss.

Their application is straightforward – an online form and two sample reviews. This lets them see if your writing style aligns with their focus.

Payment and Perks: They use the word “modest” regarding payment, but the real perk here is your byline. This helps establish you as a legitimate reviewer.

It seems they usually assign one book per month to each reviewer. This makes it a manageable side gig, perfect if you don’t have time for a huge workload.

Why BookBrowse Might Be a Good Fit:

• Helping Others: If recommending books to friends and family is your thing, this takes it to the next level.
• Building Your Portfolio: Published reviews and a byline are valuable currency in the book world, even if the pay isn’t huge initially.
• Manageable Commitment: If you’re balancing a day job or other projects, the one-review-per-month model could be ideal.

Tip: In your sample reviews sent to BookBrowse, showcase your passion for reading and your ability to analyze what makes a book truly special!

5. Publishers Weekly: Get Paid to Review the Latest and Greatest

Want to be ahead of the book-buzz curve? Publishers Weekly (PW) is the industry’s go-to source for what’s hitting shelves next. They review everything from the hottest thrillers to insightful nonfiction, offering a wide range of opportunities for reviewers.

If a book is getting published, chances are PW wants to review it. This means more chances to find a genre that suits you.

Your resume showcases your background, but it’s that 200-word review that really matters. Choose a book you’re passionate about and make those words shine!

Payment: They mention an “honorarium.” While the exact amount isn’t public, remember, getting published in PW is about more than just the immediate paycheck.

Why PW is a Smart Move for Ambitious Reviewers

• Name Recognition: PW is a heavy-hitter in the publishing world. Your byline there carries weight.
• Be an Insider: You’ll discover amazing books before the general public even knows about them.
• Build Your Network: Impress PW, and you could open doors to other review gigs, or even connections with authors and publishers.

6. AnySubjectBooks

If you’re the kind of reader who loves diving into a specific genre or topic, Any Subject Books might be your fit. They’re all about honest reviews that help readers find the perfect book within their niche. Here’s what makes them stand out:

• Your Genre, Your Choice: They’re eager to send you books you’re actually excited about – that’s key for writing a great review!
• Structured Approach: Their standard review form helps keep you focused, ensuring you hit all the important points.
• Flexibility is King: Deadlines are negotiated between you and them – perfect if you have a busy schedule.
• Payment Details: They mention that pay varies, so this is something to inquire about once they’re interested in you as a reviewer.

Why AnySubjectBooks Is Worth Checking Out:

• Dive into Your Passion: If you’re a fantasy nerd, a history buff, or obsessed with cookbooks, this is your chance to focus.
• Less Pressure: Negotiated deadlines mean you can fit reviewing into your life, not the other way around.
• Build Review Skills: Their structured form is great for learning the ropes of thoughtful analysis.

7. Women’s Review of Books: Celebrate Women’s Voices

Passionate about books by and for women? The Women’s Review of Books is a respected publication championing these powerful stories. They’ve been doing this important work for decades, covering everything from groundbreaking fiction to insightful memoirs.

• The Application: Show them you’re the real deal. Include your strongest book review sample along with your resume.
• The Rewards: This goes beyond just cash:
  • Free PDF issue with your review
  • One year magazine subscription
  • $100 per published review

Why Consider the Women’s Review of Books:

• Support a Vital Mission: Help elevate women’s voices in the literary world.
• Expand Your Reading Horizons: Discover amazing authors you might not find elsewhere
• Get Rewarded: The combination of payment, freebies, and exposure is a great perk

8. U.S. Review of Books: Get Paid for Thoughtful Critiques

If you’re a skilled writer who can analyze a book fairly and professionally, the U.S. Review of Books is worth a look. They cover a wide range of genres and need reviewers who focus on the book itself, not the author’s reputation.

Reviews are 250-300 words, following the Chicago Manual of Style (brush up on that if needed!).

Payment details aren’t public, but it seems they send checks monthly.

Why Apply to U.S. Review of Books

• Diverse Book Selection: More chances to find something that sparks your interest.
• Sharpen Your Skills: Their focus on objective critique will make you a stronger reviewer.
• Build Your Portfolio: Published reviews in a recognized publication are career gold.

Since they don’t disclose payment upfront, be prepared to inquire about that once they express interest in your application.

9. Booklist Online: Steady Reviews, Steady Paycheck

Looking for reliable review work? Booklist, backed by the American Library Association, is a powerhouse for discovering great reads. With thousands of books featured, they’re always seeking reviewers across genres – fiction, nonfiction, you name it.

• Reviews are short and sweet (175-225 words).
• You earn $15 per published review.
• Stick to their guidelines for maximum approval chances.

Why Booklist is a Good Option:

• Consistent Work: With their huge catalog, there’s always a potential review gig.
• Reliable Payment: $15 per review adds up, making it a predictable side hustle.
• Wide Range: Expand your reading horizons and discover new books to love.

Pro Tip: Study Booklist’s review style before submitting to increase your odds of getting those $15 payouts!

10. eBookFairs: Get Paid to Read (and Help Out Indie Authors)

Okay, here’s the deal with eBookFairs: it’s mainly about supporting authors, but they also have a program where readers like you can get paid to review books. Sounds pretty cool, right?

• The Pay: It’s freelance, so how much you earn depends on how many reviews you do. More details on their site.
• The Rules: They’re serious about quality, so make sure you read their guidelines first. Think thoughtful reviews of at least 250 words, spaced out a bit to avoid looking spammy.
• The Catch: There aren’t unlimited paid reviewer spots, so if you’re interested, act fast.

Why eBookFairs is Different:

• Indie Author Focus: This is your chance to discover hidden gems in the self-published world.
• Make a Difference: Your reviews directly help authors trying to build an audience.
• Potential for Growth: If you rock at reviewing, it could open doors for more paid work with authors!

11. Writerful Books: Reviews on YOUR Terms (with Potential for More)

Writerful Books is an interesting option because they offer a good amount of freedom and flexibility:

• Your Choice of Books: Love literary fiction from specific countries? You get to pick what you review, a big plus!
• Payment: They offer a decent range ($10-$50) per review, making them worth considering.
• Building a Relationship: While they don’t guarantee regular work, delivering awesome reviews could lead to them reaching out with more opportunities.
• Show Your Stuff: You’ll need some previously published reviews to apply, so this might be better if you already have some experience.

Why Consider Writerful Books:

• Flexibility: Choose books that excite you, making the review process more enjoyable.
• Show Your Range: If you have a wide reading taste, this lets you showcase it.
• Growth Potential: Impress them, and you might land a more consistent gig!

Ready to try them out? Check out their job listing for full details.

Should You Get Paid to Read Books? Weighing the Perks and the Practicalities

The idea of turning your bookworm passion into a paycheck is seriously tempting. But before you dive headfirst into applying for every book review gig out there, let’s get real:

The Pros (and They’re Big!)

• Free books! Often the most immediate perk.
• Early access to the hottest new releases.
• Building a portfolio that could open up other writing opportunities.
• Being part of the bookish community and shaping what people read.

The Cons (Because Honesty Matters)

• Pay varies wildly, from a few bucks to a few hundred per review.
• Not every book you get will be a winner – that’s the nature of the gig.
• Finding the right platforms that match your interests is key to avoiding burnout.
• It’s a side hustle for most, not a full-time income replacement.

The Verdict: It Depends on YOUR Goals

If you’re a voracious reader, have a knack for writing insightful reviews, and are excited by the perks (even with the realistic pay expectations), then book reviewing could be your dream side gig!

Calling All Book Reviewers!

Have you tried your hand at paid book reviews? I want to hear the nitty-gritty:

• The best sites for finding steady work
• Strategies for building your reputation (and your paycheck!)
• The honest truth about the time commitment involved

Share your experiences below – let’s help fellow book lovers decide if this path is right for them!