Love getting lost in a good book? Imagine turning that passion into a side hustle! With the rise of digital platforms, it’s easier than ever to earn money by reading books online. Whether you’re a bookworm searching for online book reading jobs or curious about how to get paid to read books, this beginner’s guide will show you practical ways to monetize your reading habit. Let’s dive into the world of earning money through reading and start turning pages into paychecks!

Why Reading Books Can Be a Lucrative Side Hustle

Reading isn’t just a hobby—it’s a skill that opens doors to flexible, rewarding gigs. From reviewing novels to narrating audiobooks, there are countless ways to make money reading books online. The gig economy is booming, and book-related jobs are perfect for beginners who want to work from home. Ready to explore? Here are five actionable ways to get started.

Can You Make Money Reading Books Without Any Experience?

Absolutely! You don’t need a degree or prior experience to start. Many platforms welcome beginners who love books and can share their thoughts clearly. Writing reviews or joining paid reading programs only requires enthusiasm and basic writing skills. Start small, and your passion will lead to bigger opportunities!

Top Platforms to Start Your Book Reading Side Hustle

Ready to jump in? These beginner-friendly platforms can help you start earning money by reading books online:

NetGalley

Request free ARCs and write reviews. Great for book reviewers.

ACX

Connect with authors to narrate audiobooks, even as a newbie.

Upwork/Fiverr

Find proofreading or editing gigs for manuscripts.

OnlineBookClub

Get paid to read books and submit reviews ($5–$60 per book).

WordPress/YouTube

Start a blog or channel to monetize book content via affiliates.

Sign up, explore their offerings, and pick one that matches your interests!

5 Practical Ways to Earn Money by Reading Books Online

1. Become a Book Reviewer

Platforms like NetGalley, Kirkus Reviews, and BookBrowse pay readers to write honest reviews. You get free advance copies (ARCs) and share your thoughts.

• How to Start: Sign up, create a profile, and request books in your favorite genres.
• Earning Potential: $5–$60 per review, depending on the platform.
• Tip: Build a blog to showcase your reviews and attract more gigs.

2. Narrate Audiobooks

Love performing? Audiobook narration is a growing field. Platforms like ACX connect narrators with authors.

• How to Start: Create an ACX profile, record a sample, and audition for projects.
• Earning Potential: $50–$400 per finished hour, with royalties possible.
• Tip: Invest in a good microphone and practice your pacing.

3. Proofread or Edit Manuscripts

Publishers and self-published authors need proofreaders to polish manuscripts. Find gigs on Upwork or Fiverr.

• How to Start: Build a portfolio and bid on projects.
• Earning Potential: $15–$50 per hour, based on experience.
• Tip: Take a proofreading course to boost credibility.

4. Start a Book Blog or YouTube Channel

Share reviews, summaries, or reading tips online. Monetize through affiliate marketing (e.g., Amazon Associates) or sponsorships.

• How to Start: Launch a blog on WordPress or a YouTube channel and post consistently.
• Earning Potential: $100–$1,000+ monthly, depending on traffic.
• Tip: Use SEO for terms like best books to read in 2025.

5. Join Paid Reading Programs

Apps like OnlineBookClub and BookMind pay users to read and discuss books.

• How to Start: Sign up, choose a book, and complete tasks like quizzes.
• Earning Potential: $5–$100 per book, depending on the program.
• Tip: Check reviews to avoid low-paying platforms.

Turn the Page to Your New Side Hustle

Your love for books is more than a pastime—it’s a gateway to earning extra cash. Whether you’re reviewing ARCs, narrating stories, or blogging about your favorite reads, there’s a path that fits your skills. Start small, experiment with one or two methods, and watch your side hustle grow. So, grab that novel, dive into these opportunities, and let your reading habit spark a new stream of income. What book will you monetize first?