Reading isn’t just a hobby anymore—it can actually pay your bills (or at least fund your coffee habit ☕). Most people pick up a book for pleasure, but what if those hours could also put cash in your pocket? Well, good news: there are real, legit ways to get paid to read books.
Now, let’s be real—you won’t become a millionaire by reading novels. But if you’re looking for a flexible side hustle that lets you do something you love, this is perfect. Some gigs pay per review, others per hour, and some even let you score free books on top of cash.
In this guide, we’ll break down 6 legit ways to get paid to read books in 2025, plus tips to help you start faster and earn more.
1. Get Paid to Read Books by Reviewing Them
If you love giving your opinion, this one’s a winner. Tons of companies pay you to review books, and many also let you keep the books for free.
Here are some trusted review sites to check out:
Online Book Club
Founded over a decade ago, Online Book Club is one of the most popular platforms for book lovers. They’ll give you free books to read and pay you $5–$60 per review (after your first one, which is unpaid but lets you keep the book).
Pro tip: Be honest. Publishers value real opinions—good or bad.
Kirkus Media
Kirkus Reviews is a legendary magazine that’s been around since 1933. They’re always hiring reviewers for English and Spanish books. Reviews are about 350 words and you’ll need to submit within two weeks.
To apply, you’ll send your resume, writing samples, and specialties directly to their Indie Editor. If approved, you could land steady review gigs.
Women’s Review of Books
This one’s perfect if you’re into feminist literature. They cover fiction, memoir, poetry, and scholarship—mostly by women. Reviews are longer (about 1,200 words) but pay up to $100 per review. Not bad for reading something you already enjoy!
2. Get Paid to Read Books for Audiobooks
Got a smooth voice? Or maybe people always say you should “do radio”? Audiobook narration might be your thing.
Audiobooks are booming, and narrators can make $100–$225 per finished hour (yes, per hour of audiobook time!). Beginners may earn less, but it’s still a fun, creative way to turn books into income.
One of the best platforms is ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange). You’ll create a free profile, upload samples of your voice, and audition for projects. If you’re picked, you’ll either get paid per finished hour or split royalties with the author.
Pro tip: You don’t need a fancy studio to start. A decent mic, pop filter, and quiet space are enough.
3. Get Paid to Read Books as a Translator
If you’re bilingual, this is where your skills shine. Translating books helps authors reach new audiences worldwide.
You’ll need more than just language skills—you’ll need cultural awareness, an understanding of idioms, and a knack for making the text flow naturally.
Where to find jobs:
- Freelance sites like Upwork, Fiverr, Reedsy
- Translation agencies that connect you with publishers (they take a small cut, but often bring in bigger clients)
Average pay? Around $24/hour or more. Some gigs pay per word, others per page, and some per project.
If you love both language and literature, this can be one of the most rewarding (and best-paying) book-related jobs.
4. Get Paid to Read Manuscripts
Publishing agencies get flooded with manuscripts daily. They can’t read them all, so they hire freelance readers.
As a manuscript reader, you’ll:
- Read unpublished books.
- Write a 2–3 page report summarizing the plot, characters, and style.
- Share whether the agency should accept or reject it.
Think of it like writing high school book reports—but you’re actually getting paid this time. Pay rates usually range from $25 to $100 per hour.
5. Get Paid to Read Books as a Proofreader
Are you the friend who spots typos on menus? Then proofreading might be your dream gig.
Proofreading means carefully reviewing books for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and formatting errors before they’re published. Authors and publishers hire proofreaders to polish their work.
You can find proofreading jobs on freelance sites like Fiverr and Upwork. Rates average $30–$40 per hour, and deadlines are usually flexible as long as you’re consistent.
Bonus: Proofreading books not only makes you money, but it also helps you become a sharper writer yourself.
6. Get Paid to Read Books as a Copyeditor
Copy-editing goes beyond proofreading—it’s about improving clarity, style, and flow. You’ll correct grammar and formatting and make suggestions to strengthen the writing.
Copy-editors can earn $30–$60 per hour, sometimes more if you specialize in academic or technical content. Beginners can get started with freelance sites, but investing in a copyediting certificate can boost your credibility (and income).
Final Thoughts
Getting paid to read books might sound like a dream, but it’s absolutely possible. From reviewing to proofreading, translation, or even audiobook narration, there’s a path for every type of book lover.
The key? Start with the option that matches your skills. If you’re detail-oriented, try proofreading. If you love performing, try audiobook narration. If you just want free books + side cash, start with reviews.
Bottom line: You’re already spending hours reading—why not turn those pages into paychecks?
Share this guide with your fellow bookworms and let’s make 2025 the year we all get paid to do what we love.
