How to make money reading books

If you've ever wished you could turn your passion for reading into cash, you're not alone! Many book lovers dream of getting paid to do what they love most—curling up with a good book.

Great news—it's not just a dream! There are legitimate ways to earn money from reading books, such as writing reviews, narrating audiobooks, or helping authors polish their manuscripts. 

However, it's important to note that the income varies and may not always be enough to quit your day job. These opportunities require dedication, time, and effort. Let's explore the many ways to make money from reading books.

Write book reviews 

Multiple book review websites will pay you to read and write honest reviews. Popular platforms include: 

• Online Book Club – A platform where you can get started by receiving free books in exchange for honest reviews. As you establish yourself, you can earn between $5 and $60 per review, depending on the book and the complexity of your feedback. It's a great way to dive into new genres and get paid to share your opinion.

• Reedsy Discovery – A unique platform that connects book reviewers with independent authors. You'll write detailed reviews for new indie books, and as a bonus, readers who find your reviews helpful can tip you, typically between $1 and $5 per review. 

• Kirkus Reviews – A professional review service that pays for in-depth assessments of new and upcoming books. If you're a strong writer with an eagle eye, you can earn money writing thoughtful reviews to help authors and readers. It's a well-regarded platform for serious book reviewers.

• The US Review of Books – A publication that hires freelance writers to write reviews. After going through the application process, which usually involves submitting writing samples and a brief review of a provided book, you can request the chance to review posted books and get paid monthly for the number of reviews you complete each month. 

• BookBrowse – Reviewers are expected to write approximately one review per month, each accompanied by a "beyond the book" article that dives deeper into a specific aspect of the book. In return, reviewers get a byline and modest payment. Prospective reviewers should submit two original sample reviews of at least 300 words each through the application form.

These platforms usually want genuine, thoughtful insights instead of just positive remarks. So, if you enjoy thoughtfully critiquing books, this could be your ideal gig.  

Become an audiobook narrator 

Have you ever been complimented on your voice or have an acting background? Showcase your talent! Audiobooks have soared in popularity, and narrating books is a fantastic way to blend your love of reading aloud with acting.

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Through platforms like ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange) and Voices.com, narrators can connect with authors who need their talents. The pay is usually per "finished" hour, ranging from $50 to over $250.

To increase your marketability, bone up on the most critical skills for listener engagement:

• Voice modulation

• Pacing

• Clarity

Also, consider investing in a good-quality microphone and soundproofing your recording space for cleaner audio. From there, creating a professional demo reel is key—record yourself reading a variety of texts, from fiction to non-fiction, to demonstrate your versatility.

Proofread books 

Do you have a knack for spotting typos and grammar mistakes? Proofreading can be a fruitful way to earn by helping writers and publishers fine-tune their work before it hits the market.

Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr let you set your rates and connect with clients on a freelance basis. Sites like Proofreading Services, Gramlee, and Scribbr often hire proofreaders and editors to fulfill their client's needs. Projects may vary from books to other media types that need another set of eyes.  

Pay depends on multiple factors, but beginners generally earn $15–$25 per hour. Experienced proofreaders may command $30–$50 or more for specialized projects.

To attract clients, build a portfolio and offer competitive rates at first. Take a proofreading course to boost your skills and credibility. 

Start a book blog 

If you like reading and writing, becoming a book blogger can generate income through affiliate marketing, ads, and sponsorships. For instance, you could write detailed reviews of your favorite (or not-so-favorite) books and include affiliate links from programs like Amazon Associates or Bookshop.org. You earn a commission each time someone buys a book through your link.

Many book bloggers partner with publishers or authors for paid promotions, such as featuring new releases or conducting sponsored giveaways. Hosting ads on your site through platforms like Google AdSense or working with brands for collaborations can also help you generate revenue.

Your blog may become a revenue source through a blogging site offering revenue sharing or subscription models. For example, Substack lets writers provide free and paid versions of articles and set their own rates and subscriber tiers. Substack takes a 10% commission on your earnings, plus payment processing fees.

Of course, building a successful book blog takes time and effort. You need high-quality, engaging content that resonates with a specific and voracious audience. Regularly posting thoughtful reviews, themed reading lists, or creative book-related content can help attract loyal followers who share your enthusiasm for reading. 

Join BookTok or Bookstagram 

Social media platforms like TikTok (BookTok) and Instagram (Bookstagram) have become vibrant hubs for book lovers -- and ways to make money through sponsorships and collaborations. By consistently creating engaging and thoughtful content, you can showcase your love for books and connect with like-minded readers.

The key to success? Building a dedicated audience. This means posting regularly, experimenting with creative formats like reviews, reels, or reading challenges, and staying authentic with your feedback. Brands may approach you with offers to promote their books or related products as your following grows.

Translate books 

If you’re fluent in a second language, leverage it by translating content. Websites like Babelcube, Ulatus, and Translate.com connect translators with authors who want to publish books in multiple languages. These platforms make it easier to find opportunities without pounding so much pavement.

Translators are often paid either a flat fee, a per-word rate, or through royalty-sharing agreements. Rates range from $0.05 to $0.20 per word, depending on the text complexity, the language pairing, and professional experience. For a standard 60,000-word book, this could mean earning anywhere from $3,000 to $12,000.

Alternatively, royalty agreements -- taking a percentage of book sales over time -- can offer long-term income if the book sells well.

To get started, create profiles on popular platforms to showcase your expertise, certifications (if any), and the language pairs you specialize in.

It’s also wise to build a portfolio, even if that means starting with smaller projects like translating blog posts, articles, or short stories before tackling a full-length book. Networking with authors through online communities, social media, or writer forums can also lead to opportunities. 

Investing in translation tools like CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) software can boost your skills.

Run a paid book club 

If you're good with organization and rallying the troops, you can make money by running an online or in-person book club. Online clubs give you more reach, while in-person meetings foster deeper personal connections and community. Choose a niche or theme to help attract a specific audience, such as mystery novels, science fiction, or personal development. 

You can use platforms like Meetup, social media, or local community boards to promote your club and attract members. Be clear about the benefits of joining, like curated book choices, engaging discussions, or special events.

Once you have members, organize a meeting schedule and choose your book selections in advance so everyone has enough time to read. To make things engaging, prepare discussion topics or questions to guide the conversation during meetings. Set your club apart and attract more interest by hosting unique experiences like Q&A sessions with authors, guest speakers, or themed activities related to the books. 

Charge a small monthly fee -- say $10-$20 per member to start -- to cover costs like platform subscriptions, discussion materials, or in-person snacks. With a group of 20-30 members, you could generate $200-$600 a month. Beyond the financial benefits, you’re building a passionate, book-loving community of new friends.

Work with publishing companies 

If you’re looking for more of a career path, check out jobs in publishing. While roles like acquisitions editor, literary agent, or book publicist may not offer the flexibility of freelancing, you get to work closely with content and authors in a structured, salaried environment. By immersing yourself in the literary world, you can collaborate with creative minds and directly contribute to getting things published.

Acquisitions editors play a critical role in shaping a publisher’s catalog. They scout manuscripts, collaborate with authors, and ensure content aligns with the company’s vision. From evaluating submissions to negotiating contracts, this role is perfect for those with a keen eye for talent and a passion for bringing stories to life.

A literary agent serves as the advocate and champion for writers. They're the bridge between authors and publishers, securing contracts, negotiating terms, and guiding clients through the complex publishing process. It can be a good fit for someone who enjoys relationship building, strategic thinking, and helping writers.

Book publicists focus on promoting books and getting visibility for the authors they represent. It involves building relationships with media outlets, organizing book tours, arranging interviews, and ensuring new releases capture a broad audience. It’s a dynamic position that requires creativity, communication skills, and how to connect with an audience.

Other roles to consider in publishing include editorial assistant, where you support the editing team and gain exposure to the publishing process, or marketing manager, where you craft campaigns to drive book sales. For those with a knack for organization, roles like production coordinator or rights manager manage the behind-the-scenes logistics that make publishing possible.

How to choose the best opportunity

With so many exciting ways to earn money reading books, how do you decide? Simplify the process. Consider these key factors to find a fit for your lifestyle and goals:

• Time commitment: How much time can you dedicate to your new endeavor? If you want a flexible side hustle, writing book reviews, blogging, or joining BookTok or Bookstagram might be ideal. If you're ready to invest more time, opportunities like audiobook narration or launching a paid book club could offer greater rewards.

• Skills and interests: Reflect on your strengths and passions. If you have a keen eye for detail, consider proofreading or translating books. Love performing? Audiobook narration could be your calling. If you’re drawn to building a community, starting a book club or blogging about your favorite reads may be the perfect fit. Choose a path that excites you and plays to your unique abilities.

• Earnings potential: Think about how much income you want to generate. Some opportunities, like professional proofreading or narration, may offer higher earning potential but require more time and effort upfront.

To find your best fit, start small and experiment with a few options to learn what you enjoy and what works best for your schedule without overcommitting.

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With the Greenlight app, you can keep track of your earnings, set financial goals, and even teach your kids about money management. It’s the perfect companion for families exploring new income opportunities. Try Greenlight now.

This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.