In this article, I will show you 10 best websites that pay for writing book reviews. These websites are looking for honest, thoughtful, and engaging reviews of various genres and types of books. You can choose the ones that suit your interests, skills, and availability.
But before we dive into the list of websites, let me explain why writing book reviews is a great way to make money online.
Related: How to Make Money as a Book Reviewer
Why Write Book Reviews for Money?
Writing book reviews for money is not only enjoyable but also comes with numerous personal and professional benefits. Here’s why you should consider diving into this rewarding endeavor:
- Access to Free or Discounted Books: Many platforms that pay for book reviews offer complimentary copies of the books you’ll review or provide discounts. This means you can expand your personal library without breaking the bank.
- Enhancement of Writing and Critical Thinking Skills: Writing book reviews sharpens your ability to analyze a book’s content, style, structure, and message. You also learn to express your opinions clearly, logically, and persuasively. These skills are invaluable for academic, professional, and creative writing.
- Establishment of Online Presence and Reputation: By sharing your book reviews, you can position yourself as an authority and influencer in your chosen niche. Your reviews become a showcase of your expertise, knowledge, and unique voice. Moreover, you’ll have opportunities to connect with fellow reviewers, authors, publishers, and like-minded readers who share your love for books.
- Additional Income from a Passion: Writing book reviews can become a profitable side gig. Depending on the platform, you can earn anywhere from $10 to $100 per review, and some sites even offer bonuses or rewards for high-quality or popular reviews.
How to Write Book Reviews that Pay Well?
If you want to write book reviews that pay well, here are some tips to get you started:
- Read Thoroughly: Dive deep into the book, paying attention to all the juicy details – the characters, plot twists, and themes. It’s like taking a deep dive into a new world.
- Do Your Homework: Research the book’s background and the author’s story. Knowing their influences and life can add depth to your review.
- Catchy Title: Make your review stand out with an original and interesting title. Skip those bland titles that don’t grab attention.
- Engaging Introduction: Start with a bang! Your intro should give key book info and state your main point – what you think of the book.
- Plot Summary: Give a clear and short summary of the book’s plot, but keep those spoilers and personal opinions at bay for now.
- Analyze Strengths and Weaknesses: Dive into the nitty-gritty. Talk about what the book does well and where it falls short. Use examples to back up your points.
- Comparison is Key: Compare the book with others in its genre. This helps readers understand its uniqueness.
- Wrap it Up Nicely: Finish strong with a conclusion that sums up your main points and provides recommendations.
- Proofread and Edit: Don’t forget to polish your review. Typos and unclear sentences can be a turn-off.
So, there you have it! With these tips, you’re on your way to crafting book reviews that not only pay well but also provide readers with valuable insights.
Websites that Pay for Writing Book Reviews
Now that you know how to write book reviews that pay well, let’s look at some of the best websites that pay for writing book reviews. These websites have different requirements, guidelines, rates, and benefits for their reviewers. You can choose one or more websites that suit your preferences and goals.
1. Kirkus Reviews
Kirkus Reviews is like the gold standard in the world of book reviews. They’re known far and wide for their prestige and reputation.
What’s their secret sauce? Well, they’re all about dishing out reviews for fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books, and they even give a nod to indie and self-published authors. It’s like the ultimate book lover’s hub. But they don’t stop there – they also offer some serious editorial and marketing services for authors and publishers.
How much you can earn with Kirkus Reviews
Kirkus Reviews pay their reviewers a cool $50 for each review, and these reviews should be around 350 words. It’s a fantastic opportunity to share your thoughts on books while earning some bucks. Plus, you’ve got a comfortable two weeks to work your reviewer magic once they assign you a book.
But here’s the deal – they’re looking for reviewers with a strong background in writing, editing, or publishing. Quality is the name of the game here. And they’ve got a style guide to make sure everything stays top-notch.
How to become a reviewer at Kirkus Reviews
If you’re thinking of joining the Kirkus Reviews team as a reviewer, here’s what you need to do: send in your resume, share some of your writing samples, and let them know where your expertise lies. They’re eagerly awaiting book lovers like you to be a part of their esteemed crew.
Related: How to Make Money with Kirkus Reviews: Complete Guide
2. Online Book Club
Online Book Club is like a cozy corner of the internet where book lovers like us come together to read and review books of all kinds. But it’s not just about reviews; there’s so much more to it!
What’s on offer, you ask? Well, they’ve got this amazing community vibe where you can dive into books of various genres and topics. Plus, they’re all about giving back to their members with free books, giveaways, and discounts. It’s a paradise for anyone who loves to read and wants to share their thoughts.
How much you can earn with Online Book Club
The amount varies from $5 to $60, depending on the length, quality, and popularity of your review. So, it’s like a win-win – you get to read fantastic books and earn some cash while you’re at it. The only catch is that your reviews should be honest, detailed, and constructive, all following their guidelines.
How to become a reviewer at Online Book Club
If you’re thinking about becoming a reviewer for Online Book Club, here’s what you need to do: join their community by registering as a member and show off your skills by completing a sample review. They’re thrilled to have more book enthusiasts like you on board. Happy reading and reviewing!
Related: How to Make Money with Online Book Club: Complete Guide
3. Reedsy Discovery
Reedsy Discovery is like your personal bridge to connect with indie and self-published authors. They’ve got something pretty special going on over there.
What’s in the treasure chest? Well, they’ve got curated lists of brand-new and upcoming books in all sorts of genres and categories. It’s like having your very own book curator. Plus, you can follow your favorite reviewers and authors, making it super easy to discover new books that match your tastes.
How much you can earn with Reedsy Discovery
Reedsy Discovery don’t pay their reviewers with cold, hard cash. Instead, they let readers tip reviewers they appreciate. It’s like getting a virtual high-five from fellow bookworms. And guess what? Reviewers also get some fantastic perks like exposure, recognition for their hard work, and access to exclusive giveaways and promotions.
How to become a reviewer at Reedsy Discovery
If you’re thinking of diving into the world of Reedsy Discovery as a reviewer, here’s what you need to do: fill out their application form and tell them all about your reading preferences and experience. They’re excited to welcome you to their community of book enthusiasts!
4. Booklist
Booklist is like a best friend to librarians, educators, and anyone who just can’t get enough of good books. This gem is brought to you by the American Library Association, and it’s your one-stop shop for all things book-related.
What’s in the treasure chest? Well, they’ve got book reviews that are like your compass in the literary world, recommendations that are golden, and a stash of resources that are invaluable. Whether you’re a librarian, educator, or simply a bookworm, Booklist has something special for you. They explore fiction, nonfiction, audiobooks, graphic novels, and children’s books, covering a wide range of genres and topics.
How much you can earn with Booklist
Booklist pay their reviewers $15 for each review, and these reviews should be around 175 words. It’s a fantastic opportunity to share your thoughts on books without going into marathon-length reviews. Plus, you’ve got a generous three weeks to work your magic after they assign you a book.
How to become a reviewer at Booklist
If you’re thinking of joining the Booklist team as a reviewer, here’s what you need to do: send in your resume, share a few writing samples, and let them know what bookish topics get your heart racing. They’re eager to welcome you to their book-loving family! Happy reviewing and reading!
5. Publishers Weekly
Publishers Weekly is not just another magazine – it’s a big deal in the world of book publishing. They’re the go-to source for all the latest happenings in the industry.
What do they do? Well, they bring you the latest news, in-depth reviews, fascinating interviews, captivating features, and even those coveted bestseller lists. Whether you’re a publisher, bookseller, librarian, agent, author, or simply a bookworm, Publishers Weekly has got something for you. They dive into fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, comics, audiobooks, and even the digital world of publishing.
How much you can earn with Publishers Weekly
Publishers Weekly do pay their reviewers, but the exact amount is a bit of a mystery. The reviews should be concise, around 200 words, so you get to share your thoughts without too much fuss. And you’ve got a couple of weeks to work your magic once they give you an assignment.
How to become a reviewer at Publishers Weekly
But they’re looking for reviewers with a professional or academic background in writing or publishing. It’s all about maintaining high standards here. Plus, they’ve got a style guide to make sure everything stays polished.
If you’re thinking of joining the Publishers Weekly crew as a reviewer, here’s what you need to do: send in your resume, a few writing samples, and let them know your areas of expertise. They’re eager to welcome you to their team!
6. The US Review of Books
The US Review of Books is a fantastic online publication that’s a haven for all things book-related. They’ve got it all – book reviews, insightful articles, captivating interviews, awards, and a treasure trove of resources for both authors and avid readers.
How much you can earn with The US Review of Books
What’s even more exciting is that they pay their reviewers pretty nicely, with rates ranging from $15 to $25 per review. These reviews should be around 250 to 300 words, so it’s a great opportunity to share your thoughts on books in a concise way. And guess what? You’ve got a whole month to work your magic after they assign you a book.
But here’s the catch – they’re looking for reviewers who have a strong command of English, so your writing skills are key. Plus, they’ve got some guidelines to keep things consistent and top-notch.
7. Women’s Review of Books
Women’s Review of Books is an incredible publication brought to you by the Wellesley Centers for Women, and it’s all about shining a spotlight on books by and about women.
What makes it so special? Well, it offers a feminist perspective on literature, culture, and all the important stuff happening around us. They dive into fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and memoirs penned by women writers from all walks of life and various fields.
How much you can earn with Women’s Review of Books
Women’s Review of Books pay their reviewers a generous $100 for each review, and these reviews should be around 750 to 1000 words. It’s a fantastic opportunity to share your thoughts on some amazing works by women authors.
8. BookBrowse
BookBrowse is like an online paradise for all of us who can’t get enough of books. They’ve got it all – book reviews, fantastic recommendations, sneak peeks, excerpts, and even interviews with our favorite authors. It’s basically a treasure trove for book lovers like us.
How much you can earn with BookBrowse
BookBrowse pay their reviewers $50 for each review, and these reviews should be around 600 words. That’s like getting paid to share your love for books! And you’ve got a generous three weeks to work your magic once they assign you a book.
Now, they’re not just looking for anyone. They want reviewers who really know how to weave words, have a knack for spotting the little details, and, of course, a passion for reading.
How to become a reviewer at BookBrowse
If you’re thinking of joining the BookBrowse crew, here’s what you need to do: fill out their application form and tell them about your reading preferences and your bookish experience. They’d love to have you on board!
9. Foreword Reviews
Ever heard of Foreword Reviews? It’s this awesome place, both in print and online, where they shine a spotlight on indie and self-published books. They do all sorts of cool stuff like book reviews, features, interviews, and they even hand out awards. Plus, they’re a fantastic resource for indie authors and bookworms alike. They cover everything from fiction to nonfiction, children’s books to comics, and even audiobooks and eBooks, spanning a wide range of genres and topics.
How much you can earn with Foreword Reviews
Foreword Reviews will pay you for it! Yep, they offer reviewers anywhere from $15 to $25 for each review, and these reviews should be around 400 to 500 words. Plus, you’ve got a whole month to work your magic after they assign you a book.
10. Any Subject Books
Any Subject Books is a website that offers book review, editing, proofreading, formatting, and marketing services for authors and publishers. It also provides opportunities for readers to get paid for writing book reviews of various genres and topics.
Any Subject Books pays its reviewers based on the length and complexity of the book and the review. The reviews should be honest, objective, and constructive, and should follow the Any Subject Books guidelines.
To apply as a reviewer for Any Subject Books, you need to fill out an application form and provide some information about your reading preferences and experience.
Conclusion
Writing book reviews is a great way to make money online from your passion for books. You can choose from a variety of websites that pay for writing book reviews according to your interests, skills, and goals.
However, writing book reviews is not as easy as it sounds. You need to follow some guidelines and best practices to ensure that your reviews are informative, engaging, and valuable for both the website and the readers.
I hope this article has given you some useful tips on how to write book reviews that pay well, as well as some of the best websites that pay for writing book reviews. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below.
