Did you know a study from the University of Sussex found that reading can reduce stress by up to 68%—even more than listening to music or taking a walk? For book lovers, reading brings more than just joy; it can also bring extra money.
If you love spending hours lost in a good book, real ways exist to get paid to read books from home. In this guide, you’ll discover some of the best ways to earn by reviewing books, writing short reviews, joining online book clubs, working with self-published authors, and even trying audiobook narration. We’ll also introduce you to platforms that pay for book reviews, making it even easier to turn your reading passion into cash.
Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or a future full-time job, you’ll find plenty of paid reader positions perfect for avid readers like you. Plus, when possible, we’ll share how much you can expect to make and offer expert tips to help you start strong.
Let’s dive into your next chapter and maybe your next paycheck.
Get Paid to Read Books Online: 10 Sites That Actually Pay
Here’s a breakdown of sites that pay people to read books and write reviews. Explore them all and choose the one that meets your expectations the most.
Pro tip: Reviewing books for money requires writing skills. That being said, you must learn how to become a freelance writer. For starters, join the Freelance Writers Den and get hold of the 300+ hours of powerful courses and training you can tap into anytime. Connect with 1,500+ writers inside who trade tips, share real job leads, and help each other grow stronger freelance careers. Members also post direct referrals to gigs, so you get even more ways to make money writing.
1. Online Book Club
Online Book Club is one of the best ways for book enthusiasts to get paid to read books. It connects book readers with self-published authors who need honest reviews. You sign up, pick a book you like, read it, and write a short review.
You can earn from $5 to $60 per review. Most people start with a free book only. Paid jobs come after your first sample review is approved. Do not expect a full-time job at first. It can be a good side hustle for extra money.
To start, sign up on the official website and submit writing samples. Then wait for a reply about the application process. They need honest reviews, not just positive reviews.
This platform suits avid readers who enjoy reading books and want free copies. It is perfect if you dream of running your own book review blog someday.
2. Reedsy Discovery
Reedsy Discovery is a book review platform where you can write reviews for self-published authors. It connects avid readers with authors who need high-quality reviews to promote new books.
You can earn tips from readers, usually $5 to $50 per book review. Some readers make more if they build a strong profile. Reedsy Discovery does not promise full-time jobs, but it is a great side hustle.
Start by creating a reviewer profile, uploading writing samples, and applying to review books in your preferred genres. You must provide helpful feedback and post short reviews that readers can trust.
Reedsy Discovery is great for book readers who want to get paid to read, start a book blog, or try freelance writing for different publications.
3. ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange)
ACX is different from other review sites. It is for audiobook narration. You read books out loud and record your voice. Then you get paid either by a finished hour or through royalties.
Voice actors can earn $50 to $200 per finished hour. Some get extra cash from other voice-over work found through ACX. It is not easy money, though. You need good recording equipment and strong narration skills.
To start, create a profile on the official website, upload a few voice samples, and audition for projects. Many publishers look for new voices for young adults, adult fiction, and graphic novels.
If you enjoy reading audiobooks and want a side hustle that could grow into a full-time career, ACX offers a few options for paid reader positions.
4. Booklist
Booklist is one of the oldest review sites for book enthusiasts. It focuses on helping libraries and schools find good books through editorial reviews. You can get paid to read books and submit high-quality reviews.
Payment depends on the project, but usually falls between $15 to $50 per review. It is not a full-time job, but it can help you earn money on the side.
To start, visit the official website and look for freelance book reviews. You will need to send writing samples, professional references, and go through the application process.
If you dream of freelance writing for literary magazines or publishing companies, Booklist is a strong place to build reviewing skills.
5. The US Review of Books
The US Review of Books gives book fanatics the chance to get paid to read and write reviews for self-published books, adult fiction, and young adult novels. Reviews submitted must meet strict guidelines.
Reviewers usually earn about $25 to $75 per book review. It depends on the length and deadline. Jobs come through freelance writing gigs, not permanent contracts.
Start by going to the official website and applying by sending writing samples and professional references. The application process is simple but selective.
If you enjoy writing book reviews and want extra money or even build toward a full-time career, The US Review of Books is one of the best ways to grow as a book reviewer.
6. Kirkus Reviews
Kirkus Reviews is a big name in book reviews. They provide short reviews and editorial reviews for publishers, authors, and readers.
You can get paid to read books and earn steady freelance jobs if you do well. Payment depends on word count and speed. Many reviewers earn $50 to $75 per review. Some top reviewers earn extra money from bonus projects like beta reader work or audiobook narration jobs.
To start, visit the official website and look for paid reader positions on their job board. You must send writing samples and pass a test. They look for honest book reviews, not just positive reviews.
This platform is perfect for avid readers who want serious freelance writing gigs with many publications.
7. BookBrowse
BookBrowse is a book review platform focused on thoughtful, high-quality reviews for adult fiction, nonfiction, and young adult books. They care about deep reviewing skills, not quick posts.
Reviewers get paid for freelance book reviews. The exact pay is private, but most say it is $50 to $100 per accepted review. BookBrowse does not offer full-time jobs. Think of it as a side hustle for extra cash.
Apply with writing samples and a few sample reviews on the official website. You must enjoy reading books and giving helpful feedback.
If you love reviewing books and want to earn money while building your own blog or freelance writing career, BookBrowse is one of the better review sites today.
8. NetGalley
NetGalley lets readers get free copies of books in exchange for honest book reviews. You do not get direct money from NetGalley. But it helps you build reviewing skills, writing samples, and connections with publishing companies.
Many people who start on NetGalley move on to freelance jobs with literary magazines, publishers’ weekly, and paid review sites. You can also post reviews on your own blog or YouTube channel to get noticed.
To start, sign up at the official website and pick books based on your preferred genres. Submit short reviews after reading. Publishers often give more books to readers who provide helpful feedback.
NetGalley is one of the best ways for new reviewers who want to get paid to read books someday. It is a smart step before applying for bigger freelance writing jobs.
9. getAbstract
getAbstract is different from most book review platforms. Instead of writing book reviews, you write book summaries. They focus on nonfiction, business, and self-help books.
Writers get paid per summary. Rates vary, but many say it can be $100 to $300 per summary. The job takes strong reading and writing skills. You need to boil down a whole good book into a few pages.
To start, go to look for freelance writing jobs on the official website. Submit writing samples that show you can write clear and helpful summaries.
If you love nonfiction and want to get paid to read while improving your writing skills, getAbstract is a smart online platform for making extra money or even starting a full-time career in freelance writing.
10. eBookFairs
eBookFairs helps readers and self-published authors connect. It is a simple way to get paid to read books and write short reviews.
At first, you read two books for free. After that, you earn $10 per review. You can earn up to $50 total. It is not a full-time job, but it is great for extra cash or a side hustle. Many book readers use it to build writing samples for bigger jobs later.
To start, go to the official website and look for the Paid Reader Program. You must send writing samples to show you can provide helpful feedback. If you pass, you will get books to review based on your preferred genres. You post your honest book review on places like Goodreads, your blog, or a book club online.
If you enjoy reading books and want easy freelance reviews without a big application process, eBookFairs is one of the best ways to get paid to read and support self-published books.
BONUS: Publishers Weekly
Publishers Weekly is a well-known name in the publishing world, offering book reviews and industry insights. While mainly aimed at publishers and authors, it also offers opportunities for readers to get paid for reviews.
Freelancers can apply to write book reviews for various book genres. Acceptance requires a strong writing background and knowledge of the publishing world. Paid book review opportunities typically pay between $50 and $75 per review, depending on the book’s length and complexity.
This is a great option for experienced writers who want to expand their portfolio in the publishing industry. While not a full-time job, it provides solid freelance opportunities for those passionate about writing and reading.
Additional Ways to Earn Money Reading Books
If you love reading books and dream of earning extra money doing it, good news! You can get paid to read books in many different ways. That being said, here’s a list of ways to turn your passion for reading into a side hustle.
We’ll also share how much you can expect to earn and offer expert tips to help you get started quickly. Let’s dive in and start turning your love for books into cash!
Critique Partner
A critique partner helps other writers improve their work. This often happens in book clubs, writers’ groups, and job boards. Many critique partners exchange help for free. But if you build strong writing samples and gain trust, you can earn extra cash reviewing others’ work. Book lovers with editing skills often get paid when self-published authors need professional advice. Look for active groups where writers seek helpful feedback.
Expert tip: Create a small book review blog or post sample reviews to show your skills.
Professional Reviewer
Professional reviewers read books and write book reviews for a living. Starting your own book blog, building a Goodreads profile, and joining review sites help you build trust. Platforms like Kirkus Reviews or Publishers Weekly want strong reviewers.
Expert tip: Focus on short reviews first. Then apply with writing samples to bigger sites to get paid for high-quality work.
Sensitivity Reader
Sensitivity readers help writers create real, respectful characters. If you have cultural or life experience that adds depth, you can get paid to read books and provide honest, helpful advice. Publishers and self-published authors often seek sensitivity readers to catch mistakes.
Typical rates include:
- Up to 5,000 words: $50
- 5,001–10,000 words: $50 plus 1 cent per word
- Over 10,000 words: Lower per-word rates, but bigger pay
Expert tip: Build a simple website listing your background, preferred genres, and rates.
Audiobook Reader
If you enjoy reading aloud, becoming an audiobook narrator could be one of the best ways to make money. Many book readers with a theater or voice acting background love this side hustle. Companies like Brilliance Audio often post jobs for readers.
Expert tip: Invest in a good microphone. Practice reading young adult, adult fiction, and graphic novels aloud to show range.
Translator
If you speak another language well, translating books could be a full-time career. You will work closely with authors and publishers, turning good books into fresh versions for new readers. Translators sometimes get royalties, too.
Expert tip: Specialize in genres you enjoy, like romance, fantasy, or thrillers, to make the work more fun and faster.
Beta Reader
Beta readers test a story before it hits the shelves. As a beta reader, you point out slow parts, plot holes, or weak characters. This early feedback is critical for writers.
Expert tip: Charge fair rates. Join Facebook groups for beta readers and post about your reviewing skills.
Proofreader
Proofreaders polish a book right before printing. They catch grammar errors, missing words, or formatting issues manually or by using proofreader tools. Many freelance writers add proofreading to their service list to make extra money.
Expert tip: Focus on preferred genres like young adult or adult fiction. Building a niche speeds up finding paid work.
Acquisitions Editor
Acquisitions editors pick which books a publisher invests in. They read the first pages fast to decide if a book has something special. Reading a lot and knowing trends in publishing helps a lot here.
Expert tip: Volunteer to help at literary magazines first. Build professional references while you build experience.
Get Paid to Read Books and Live Your Dream!
Now that you have a list of ideas on how to get paid to read books, it’s time to take action so you can start living your dream. However, take a few minutes to consider the following points before starting:
- Resist the urge to pursue every option at once
- Early on, try to review books you love
- Read like a reader as well as a reviewer
- Keep the author in mind
It’s easy to experience decision fatigue when presented with so many ways to get paid to read books. Instead of trying everything, choose one or two options that most intrigue you and start there.
Next, review books you love to allow you to write glowing reviews rather than cynical ones. While it’s important to be honest in reviews, always keep tact in mind.
Last, don’t forget that readers, as well as critics, will likely read your reviews, so tailor your review voice accordingly. And with that said, the authors themselves may read your review!
Whether you loved or hated their book, they spent hours, months, and possibly years of their lives getting their book into the world. Always remember to be gracious.
FAQs
Can I earn money by reading books?
Yes, you can earn money if you love to read books! There’s a wide range of options out there for readers who want to get paid to read books. Many online platforms pay people to write book reviews, give helpful feedback, or create short summaries. Some focus on book reviews for adult fiction, young adult stories, or graphic novels. Others need beta readers to provide honest review notes before a book is published.
Sites like Kirkus Reviews, Online Book Club, and BookBrowse offer paid reader positions. You will usually need to send writing samples, show strong reviewing skills, and complete the application process. Freelance reviews can be a fun side hustle for avid readers who want extra money. It is not always a full-time job at first, but it can grow into freelance writing or even a full-time career if you build a blog or start reviewing books for many publications.
What company will pay you $200 to read a book?
Some companies and online platforms pay high rates for high-quality reviews or editorial reviews. Kirkus Reviews is one well-known book review site that sometimes pays top reviewers $50 to $75 per short review. Over time, when you build good relationships and strong writing samples, you might get bigger freelance reviews or special projects that pay up to $200.
Another place where you could earn around $200 for reading books is Reedsy Discovery. If you are a trusted book reviewer there, some self-published authors will pay more for detailed reviews and helpful feedback.
Also, companies like getAbstract can pay up to $300 for professional book summaries of nonfiction books. These jobs often ask for strong reviewing skills and a few professional references.
For avid readers who enjoy reading books and want to make money, finding the best ways to get paid to read is all about building experience and posting reviews on your blog, review sites, or literary magazines.
What website pays $100 per hour for reading?
While there are sites that help you get paid to read books, very few actually pay $100 per hour. Some freelance jobs in audiobook narration or voice-over work for finished-hour projects could come close to that rate once you’re skilled.
For reviews, most sites like Online Book Club and Kirkus Reviews pay per review, not per hour. A really good freelance book reviewer might finish a detailed review faster and earn extra money, but it still depends on speed, preferred genres, and the book itself.
Freelance writing for Publishers Weekly, literary magazines, or starting your blog can sometimes lead to high-paying jobs. But at first, most paid reader positions pay about $50 to $100 per review.
Readers looking for a side hustle should focus on building reviewing skills, providing helpful feedback, and writing high-quality reviews if they want to grow into top-paying freelance jobs over time.
Does Amazon pay you to read?
Amazon itself does not directly pay people just to read books. However, readers can still find a few options connected to Amazon to earn extra cash. Some self-published authors on Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing platform hire freelance book reviewers through job boards and online platforms like Reedsy Discovery or Upwork.
Also, programs like Amazon Vine invite top reviewers to get free products, including books, in exchange for writing honest review posts. While you do not get direct money from Vine, it is one of the best ways to get free copies and build your review portfolio.
If you enjoy reading books and want to make money, you could also start a blog or YouTube channel reviewing Amazon books. Over time, you can earn through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate links. This side hustle can turn into a full-time career for avid readers who provide high-quality reviews across many publications and review sites.
