12 Genius Ways to Make Money with Books
Last Updated on 09/18/2024 by Nell Marie
If you’re a stay-at-home mom with a passion for books, why not turn that love into a side hustle?
Whether you’re flipping through the pages of the latest bestseller during nap time or diving into a classic novel after the kids are in bed, there are plenty of ways to make money from your bookish interests.
From reviewing books to starting a book-focused YouTube channel or TikTok account, you can find creative ways to earn some extra cash while doing what you love—reading.
Plus, these book-related gigs are flexible enough to fit into your busy mom schedule, letting you balance your passion with family life.
Let’s hop in and read more about these book-loving jobs and opportunities!
WAIT! First, are you following me on Pinterest? This is where you’ll find all the work at home and parenting content! I hope you’ll find me there.
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- How to Afford Being a Stay at Home Mom
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Money Making Ideas for Book Lovers
There’s something magical about turning your favorite hobby into a source of income, especially when it blends so seamlessly into your daily routine.
Imagine getting paid to read, share your thoughts on books, or even design book covers—all from the comfort of your home.
Whether you’re running a virtual book club, narrating audiobooks, or curating a book review newsletter, the opportunities are as varied as your bookshelf.
And the best part?
These ventures allow you to engage with a community of fellow book lovers, all while earning extra money.
So, if you’re ready to turn your literary passion into a profitable side gig, the possibilities are endless.
So, let’s hop into the ideas!
12 Ways to Make Money Reading Books
Some of these ideas you may have heard of before, some you may have never even considered, and I bet you’ve not even heard of #12 as an option!
Here’s to making your reading and money-making dreams working hand in hand, come true!
1- Proofreading & Editing
If you’ve got a keen eye for detail and a love for the written word, proofreading, and editing could be a great way to make money from home.
You don’t necessarily need formal education or tons of experience to get started, though it certainly helps if you’re already familiar with grammar, punctuation, and style.
If you love the idea of proofreading for a living but aren’t 100% confident in your abilities, you could look into Proofreading Anywhere, which is a full course.
Many authors, bloggers, and publishers are on the lookout for skilled proofreaders and editors to help polish their work.
You can find gigs on websites like:
As for how much you can make, it varies depending on the project and your level of experience.
Beginners might start around $15-$25 per hour, but as you gain more experience and build a solid portfolio, you could easily charge $40-$60 per hour or more.
Some projects might pay a flat rate, depending on the word count or complexity.
The beauty of this gig is that it’s flexible, allowing you to work at your own pace and take on as much or as little work as you want—perfect for fitting around your family’s schedule.
Caitlyn of Proofreading Anywhere interviewed about proofreading, which you can see below.
2- Book Reviewer
If you’re someone who loves diving into new books and sharing your thoughts, becoming a book reviewer might be the perfect side gig for you.
You don’t need a degree or tons of experience to get started—just a genuine love for reading and the ability to write thoughtful, honest reviews.
Many online platforms, magazines, and blogs pay for book reviews, and some publishers will even send you free books in exchange for your feedback.
To find these opportunities, you can start by joining sites like:
or even try contacting your favorite book bloggers to see if they need contributors.
In terms of earnings, book reviewing typically won’t make you rich, but it can be a fun way to earn some extra cash while doing something you enjoy.
Payments can range from $5 to $60 per review, depending on the platform and your experience.
Some sites pay per review, while others offer perks like free books or higher pay rates for more detailed critiques.
Over time, if you build a strong reputation, you might even land gigs with bigger publications that pay more.
Plus, it’s a flexible gig that you can easily fit into your daily routine, making it a great option for stay-at-home moms looking to combine their love of reading with a bit of extra income.
Olive talks about how she has become a book reviewer.
3- Beta Reader
If you enjoy getting a sneak peek at books before they’re published and offering feedback, becoming a beta reader could be a great way to earn some extra money.
As a beta reader, your job is to read manuscripts and provide authors with honest feedback on things like plot, character development, pacing, and overall readability.
You don’t need any formal education or extensive experience—just a passion for reading and the ability to give constructive feedback.
Many authors seek out beta readers to get a fresh perspective on their work before it goes to an editor, and you can easily offer your services on platforms like Fiverr and Upwork,
Be creative and advertise your services by posting on social media sites like Instagram and TikTok, where many up-and-coming authors hang out.
When it comes to earnings, beta reading is more of a side hustle than a full-time gig, but it can still be a fun and rewarding way to make some extra cash.
Rates can vary widely depending on the length of the manuscript and the depth of feedback required.
On Fiverr, you might charge anywhere from $10 to $100 per project, depending on the word count and the level of detail you’re providing.
Over time, as you gain experience and positive reviews, you can increase your rates and attract more clients.
It’s a flexible and enjoyable way to combine your love of reading with a bit of income, all while helping authors polish their work.
The video below is all about being a Beta Reader. (please note, that she mentions needing beta readers but this video is not recently recorded so that part is irrelevant. However, the meat of the video about beta reading is still valid and helpful.)
4- Audiobook Narrator
If you’ve got a great voice and love reading aloud, becoming an audiobook narrator might be a fantastic way to earn some extra cash.
Audiobook narrators bring stories to life by recording books for people who prefer to listen rather than read. You don’t necessarily need formal training, but having a clear, expressive voice and good recording equipment will set you up for success.
Platforms like ACX connect narrators with authors and publishers who are looking to turn their written work into audiobooks, making it easier for you to find gigs.
More places to find work:
Voices.com: A popular platform for voice-over work, including audiobook narration. You can create a profile, showcase your skills, and apply for various projects.
Voice123: Another site dedicated to voice-over work, where you can find audiobook narration gigs. It allows you to set up a profile and audition for projects that match your voice and style.
Bunny Studio: Offers opportunities for voice actors, including audiobook narrators. You can join their network and bid on projects that interest you.
Casting Call Club: A platform where you can find voice-over work, including audiobook narration. You can audition for various roles and connect with clients looking for narrators.
Upwork: A freelance platform where you can offer your audiobook narration services and bid on projects posted by clients looking for narrators.
In terms of earnings, audiobook narration can be quite rewarding, though it varies based on factors like the length of the book and your experience level.
Beginners might start around $50-$100 per finished hour of audio, but experienced narrators can earn significantly more, with rates reaching $200-$300 or higher per finished hour.
Some projects offer flat fees per book, which can also be lucrative depending on the book’s length and complexity.
Audiobook narration is flexible and can fit into your schedule, allowing you to work from home and take on projects at your own pace.
Plus, it’s a great way to combine your love of storytelling with a profitable side hustle.
Tips from a pro audiobook narrator!
5- Book Blogger
If you’re passionate about books and enjoy sharing your thoughts with others, starting a book blog could be a fantastic way to earn some extra money while doing what you love.
As a book blogger, you’ll write reviews, recommendations, and literary discussions, connecting with fellow book lovers and authors.
You don’t need a degree or extensive experience to get started, but a knack for writing and a love for reading will certainly help.
Platforms like WordPress or Blogger make it easy to set up your own blog, and you can monetize your content through affiliate links, sponsored posts, and partnerships with publishers.
In terms of earnings, book blogging can be quite flexible. Initially, you might not make a lot of money, but as you build your audience and establish your blog, your income potential grows.
Affiliate marketing can bring in commissions for books sold through your links, and you can earn anywhere from a few dollars to hundreds per month, depending on your traffic and engagement.
Sponsored posts and collaborations with publishers can also add to your income, with rates ranging from $50 to $500 per post, depending on your blog’s reach and influence.
And don’t forget joining an ad network as another way to make money as a blogger.
Blogging is a great way to fit your passion into your schedule, allowing you to work from home and engage with a community of fellow book enthusiasts.
Awesome book blogs:
Blogging Resources:
- WordPress.org (you’ll want a self-hosted account and not the free WordPress.com option)
- Domain name (You can find places like GoDaddy or NameCheap for a domain name)
- Bigscoots hosting (it’s the one I use and love and have had nothing but a positive experience with) (pro tip: if you get hosting with BigScoots, you don’t need the dedicated WordPress hosting when starting. Opt for the more affordable shared hosting, which offers plans as low as $6.95 a month)
- Restored316 Designs WordPress theme (I really like Lauren’s themes and think you will, too. She offers a starter collection, which is a great option for beginners.)
- Create Your Blog Dream blogging course (This course is by Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone, a very successful blogger and YouTuber, she has put together a thorough course for beginners. I bought it with my own money and highly recommend it for those who are new to blogging!)
Speaking of Lisa Bass, below is a great video about how she made her first $500 as a blogger.
6- Become a Bookstagrammer
If you’re a fan of books and enjoy sharing your literary finds with others, becoming a bookstagrammer on Instagram could be a fun and profitable side gig.
As a bookstagrammer, you create visually appealing content centered around books—think book reviews, recommendations, reading challenges, and literary-themed photos.
You don’t need a degree or extensive experience to get started, but having a good eye for photography and a flair for engaging content will help.
You can set up a dedicated bookstagram account and start posting regularly to build your following and connect with other book lovers.
When it comes to making money, bookstagramming can be quite rewarding, especially as your account grows. Initially, you might start by earning through affiliate marketing, where you earn commissions on books purchased through your links.
As you build a following, you can also attract sponsored posts from publishers or brands, with rates ranging from $50 to $500 or more, depending on your engagement and follower count.
You might get free books or other book-related products to review and feature on your account.
The flexibility of Instagram allows you to fit this creative outlet into your schedule, making it a great way to combine your love of books with a bit of extra income.
Some Bookstagrammers to Follow:
Check out this helpful video on how to become an influencer, which is essentially what you’ll be doing on social media – yes – even with books and readers!
7- Literary Translator
If you’re fluent in multiple languages and have a passion for literature, becoming a literary translator might be an exciting way to earn some extra income.
Literary translators work on translating books from one language to another, helping authors and publishers reach a wider audience.
You don’t necessarily need a formal degree in translation, but a strong grasp of both languages and an understanding of literary nuances are essential.
Freelance platforms are a great place to start finding translation gigs, where you can connect with clients looking for your language skills.
You can check out sites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr to find translation projects.
Specialized translation platforms like ProZ and TranslatorsCafe can connect you with clients specifically seeking literary translation services.
Rates for literary translation can vary widely depending on the project’s complexity and length.
Beginners might earn around $0.05 to $0.15 per word, while more experienced translators can command rates of $0.20 to $0.50 per word or more.
Some projects might offer flat fees based on the book’s length, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Becoming a literary translator offers flexibility, as you can work from home and set your own hours.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in different cultures and bring new stories to readers in various languages.
More on the topic below!
8- Book Cover Designer
If you’ve got a flair for graphic design and a passion for books, becoming a book cover designer could be a great way to turn your skills into some extra income.
Book covers play a crucial role in attracting readers, so authors and publishers are always on the lookout for eye-catching designs that make their books stand out.
You don’t necessarily need a formal degree in design, but a strong portfolio and proficiency with design software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator will help you land clients.
Many self-published authors and small publishers are especially in need of affordable and talented designers, making this a lucrative opportunity if you’re creative and detail-oriented.
You can find book cover design gigs on freelance platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr, where you can set up a profile and showcase your portfolio.
Specialized sites like 99designs or DesignCrowd also offer opportunities for book cover design projects.
Rates for book cover design can vary widely based on your experience and the complexity of the project.
As a beginner, you might charge around $50 to $150 per cover, but experienced designers can command $200 to $500 or more, depending on the scope and detail of the work.
Some projects may even offer royalties or additional compensation if the book does particularly well.
Designing book covers offers a flexible and creative way to earn money from home, allowing you to work on projects that excite you and build a portfolio that showcases your unique style.
Plus, it’s rewarding to see your designs on books and know you’ve contributed to bringing someone’s literary vision to life.
9- Create and Sell Bookish Merch
If you’re a book lover with a knack for creativity, designing and selling bookish merchandise could be a fantastic way to make some extra money.
Whether you’re into creating:
- unique bookmarks
- quirky tote bags
- cozy mugs
- stylish book-themed clothing
there’s a market out there for products that celebrate the love of reading.
You don’t need formal training to get started, but having a good sense of design and knowing how to use tools like Canva or Adobe Illustrator will help.
Platforms like Etsy are perfect for reaching a book-loving audience and setting up your own online shop.
To get started, you can create your designs and set up a shop on Etsy, where you can list your merchandise and connect with customers.
You can also explore other platforms like Redbubble and Society6, which allow you to upload your designs and have them printed on various products without needing to handle inventory or shipping.
Depending on the product and your pricing, you can earn anywhere from a few dollars to $20 or more per item sold. For example, bookmarks might sell for $5-$10 each, while tote bags or mugs could range from $15-$30.
Advertise your products with videos on TikTok, set up an Instagram account, or even take it to YouTube for a clever way to get your products out in front of book lovers’ eyes and maybe even go viral!
Selling bookish merchandise offers the flexibility to work on your own schedule and create products that resonate with your fellow book enthusiasts.
Plus, it’s a fun way to turn your love for reading into a profitable side hustle while connecting with other book lovers and seeing your designs enjoyed by readers everywhere.
Tutorial about using print-on-demand t-shirts for your ideas!
10- BookTuber
If you love talking about books and have a knack for creating engaging videos, becoming a book vlogger on YouTube could be a fantastic way to earn some extra cash while sharing your literary passions.
As a book vlogger, you’ll create content like:
- book reviews
- reading recommendations
- author interviews
- and literary discussions
connecting with a community of book lovers.
You don’t need a formal background in video production, but having a good camera and editing skills will help your videos stand out.
Platforms like YouTube make it easy to set up your channel and start uploading your content.
To get started, create a YouTube channel focused on books and begin posting regular videos.
As your channel grows, you can monetize your content through various methods.
YouTube Partner Program allows you to earn money from ads displayed on your videos once you reach the required subscriber and view counts.
You can earn through affiliate marketing by including links to books in your video descriptions, with commissions on sales generated through those links.
Sponsored content and brand partnerships with publishers or book-related companies can also add to your income, with rates ranging from $50 to $500 or more, depending on your channel’s reach and engagement.
Book vlogging offers a flexible and creative way to earn money while engaging with a community of fellow book enthusiasts.
It allows you to work from home, set your own schedule, and turn your love of reading into a rewarding side hustle.
Plus, it’s exciting to see your videos resonate with others and contribute to the bookish conversation.
11- BookTocker
If you love books and enjoy creating short, engaging content, making money on TikTok as a book influencer could be a fantastic way to combine your passions with a profitable side hustle.
On TikTok, you can share book reviews, reading recommendations, literary trends, and fun bookish challenges in bite-sized videos that capture viewers’ attention.
You don’t need a formal background or extensive experience—just a flair for creativity and a knack for connecting with others.
Setting up a dedicated book-focused account on TikTok is easy, and it offers a vibrant platform for book lovers to share their enthusiasm.
To start earning money, focus on building a strong following by posting regularly and engaging with your audience.
Once you have a decent number of followers, you can monetize your content in several ways.
TikTok’s Creator Fund pays creators based on their video performance and engagement, though the payouts can vary.
You can also partner with brands and publishers for sponsored content, which can range from $50 to $500 or more per video, depending on your follower count and engagement.
Additionally, affiliate marketing can be a lucrative option—include links to books in your bio or video descriptions and earn commissions on sales generated through those links.
TikTok offers flexibility and creativity, allowing you to work on your own schedule and create content that reflects your love for reading.
It’s an exciting way to engage with a community of book enthusiasts while earning money and building your personal brand in the bookish world.
More about making money with TikTok, here.
5 ways to make money on TikTok:
12 – Paid or Free Book Review Newsletter
If you’re passionate about books and enjoy writing, starting a book review newsletter can be a rewarding way to make money while sharing your literary insights.
You have two main options: creating a paid newsletter or offering a free one with monetization through affiliate marketing and sponsored content.
Both approaches allow you to connect with fellow book lovers and turn your passion into income.
For a paid newsletter, platforms like Substack are ideal.
You can create a subscription-based newsletter where readers pay for exclusive content such as in-depth book reviews, author interviews, and curated reading lists.
Substack handles the payment processing and subscription management, making it easy for you to focus on content creation.
Pricing can vary, but many newsletters charge between $5 to $15 per month.
As you build your subscriber base, your income potential grows, and you can offer tiered subscriptions with additional perks for higher-paying subscribers.
You can start a free newsletter and monetize it through affiliate marketing and sponsored content.
You can use platforms like Mailchimp or ConvertKit to manage your email list and send out regular newsletters.
By including affiliate links to books in your newsletters, you can earn commissions on any sales generated through those links.
Rates for affiliate commissions vary but typically range from 5% to 10% of the sale price.
As your subscriber list grows, you can attract sponsors who are willing to pay for featured placements or sponsored content in your newsletter.
Sponsored content rates can range from $50 to $500 or more, depending on your audience size and engagement.
Both approaches offer flexibility and allow you to work from home, fitting your content creation around your schedule.
Whether you choose a paid model or a free one with monetization strategies, a book review newsletter is a great way to turn your love of reading into a profitable venture while engaging with a community of fellow book enthusiasts.
Complete guide to starting a newsletter business, click here.
Get started writing on Substack.
Book Lovers FAQ
1. How can I find new and good books to read?
Finding new and good books can be an exciting adventure!
Here are a few ways to discover your next great read:
- Book Recommendation Sites: Websites like Goodreads and What Should I Read Next? are great for personalized book recommendations based on your reading history and preferences.
- Bookstores & Libraries: Browsing your local bookstore or library can lead to unexpected finds. Don’t hesitate to ask staff for recommendations—they often have insider knowledge about hidden gems.
- Book Reviews & Blogs: Follow book review blogs, literary magazines, or watch booktubers on YouTube. They often highlight new releases and offer honest opinions.
- Social Media: Instagram (Bookstagram), TikTok (BookTok), and Twitter have vibrant book communities where readers share their latest finds and recommendations.
2. What are the main genres of books?
Books come in a variety of genres, catering to different tastes and interests.
Here are some of the most popular genres:
- Fiction: Includes subgenres like literary fiction, historical fiction, science fiction, fantasy, and romance.
- Non-Fiction: Encompasses biographies, memoirs, self-help, history, true crime, and essays.
- Mystery/Thriller: Focuses on suspenseful plots, crime-solving, and psychological twists.
- Fantasy: Features magical worlds, mythical creatures, and epic adventures.
- Science Fiction: Explores futuristic concepts, technology, space exploration, and dystopian themes.
- Romance: Centers around love stories, often with happy endings, and includes subgenres like contemporary romance, historical romance, and romantic suspense.
- Historical Fiction: Set in the past, often with a focus on historical events or periods.
- Young Adult (YA): Targeted at teens but enjoyed by many adults, featuring coming-of-age themes.
- Horror: Designed to scare and thrill, often involving supernatural elements.
3. How can I find a community of book lovers?
Connecting with fellow book enthusiasts can enrich your reading experience.
Here are some ways to find your bookish tribe:
- Book Clubs: Join a local or online book club. Many libraries and bookstores host regular book club meetings, or you can find virtual ones on platforms like Meetup or Goodreads.
- Social Media: Platforms like Instagram (Bookstagram), TikTok (BookTok), and Twitter have active communities where readers share reviews and recommendations, and discuss books.
- Online Forums: Websites like Reddit have dedicated book communities (e.g., r/books, r/BookSuggestions) where you can discuss your favorite books and discover new ones.
- Events & Festivals: Attend book signings, literary festivals, or author talks in your area. These events are great for meeting like-minded readers.
- Book Subscription Boxes: Services like Book of the Month or OwlCrate not only send you new books each month but also connect you with other subscribers through exclusive online communities.
4. How do I get out of a reading slump?
Reading slumps happen to the best of us, but here are some tips to reignite your love for reading:
- Change the Genre: Try reading a different genre than you usually do. If you’re usually into fiction, switch to non-fiction or vice versa.
- Short Stories or Novellas: Sometimes, a quick read can get you back into the habit without the commitment of a full novel.
- Revisit an Old Favorite: Rereading a book you loved in the past can remind you why you love reading.
- Join a Reading Challenge: Participate in a reading challenge to add a bit of motivation and structure to your reading habits.
- Audiobooks: Listening to books can be a refreshing change, especially if you’re struggling to find time to sit down and read.
5. How can I improve my reading speed?
Improving your reading speed takes practice, but here are some tips to help you along:
- Practice Regularly: The more you read, the quicker you’ll become. Set aside time each day to read, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
- Avoid Subvocalization: Try to avoid “saying” the words in your head as you read. Instead, focus on visualizing or comprehending the text.
- Use a Pointer: Use your finger or a pen to guide your eyes along the lines of text. This can help you maintain a steady pace and avoid backtracking.
- Read in Chunks: Train your eyes to take in multiple words at once rather than reading word by word.
- Practice with Familiar Texts: Start with books or genres you’re comfortable with to build your confidence and speed.
6. What are some must-read classic books?
If you’re looking to dive into the classics, here are a few timeless reads that are often recommended:
- “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen: A witty exploration of love, society, and the pressures of 19th-century England.
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee: A powerful story about racial injustice and moral growth in the American South.
- “1984” by George Orwell: A dystopian novel that delves into themes of totalitarianism and surveillance.
- “Moby-Dick” by Herman Melville: A complex tale of obsession and revenge on the high seas.
- “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald: A tragic exploration of the American Dream in the Roaring Twenties.
- “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Brontë: A dark and passionate tale of love and revenge on the Yorkshire moors.
- “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger: A coming-of-age story that captures teenage angst and rebellion.
7. How do I keep track of the books I’ve read?
Keeping track of your reading can be satisfying and helpful for remembering what you’ve enjoyed.
Here’s how you can do it:
- Reading Journals: Maintain a physical journal where you jot down the titles, authors, and your thoughts on the books you’ve read.
- Goodreads: This popular website lets you track your reading, set goals, and review books. It’s also a great place to find new recommendations.
- Apps: Apps like Bookly and Libib help you catalog your books, track your progress, and even set reminders for your reading goals.
- Spreadsheets: Some readers prefer to create their own spreadsheets to track books, including details like genre, rating, and completion date.
- Social Media: Share your reading progress on platforms like Instagram or Twitter, where you can connect with other readers and get book recommendations.
8. What’s the best way to tackle a long reading list?
Tackling a long reading list can feel daunting, but here are some strategies to make it manageable:
- Prioritize: Decide which books you’re most excited to read or which are most time-sensitive and start with those.
- Set Goals: Break your reading list into monthly or weekly goals to keep your momentum going.
- Mix It Up: Alternate between different genres or formats (e.g., eBooks, audiobooks) to keep things interesting.
- Buddy Read: Partner with a friend or join a book club to read through a list together, providing motivation and accountability.
- Be Realistic: It’s okay to adjust your list as you go—if a book isn’t grabbing you, consider setting it aside for later.
This FAQ is just a starting point for diving deeper into the world of books. Whether you’re looking for new reads, trying to find your next bookish community, or simply want to get more out of your reading experience, there’s always more to explore in the vast and wonderful world of literature.
Happy reading!
Final Thoughts
Turning your love for books into a source of income is not only possible but can also be incredibly fulfilling.
Whether you’re diving into bookish gigs like reviewing, editing, or narrating, or exploring creative ventures like designing book covers or starting a book-focused social media account, there’s a wide range of opportunities to suit your skills and interests.
The flexibility of these jobs means you can often work from home, set your own schedule, and build a side hustle that fits seamlessly into your life.
What’s great about these bookish gigs is that they allow you to engage with the literary world in meaningful ways while earning extra cash.
Whether you’re sharing your thoughts through a blog, podcast, or YouTube channel, or offering services like translation or design, you’re not just making money—you’re contributing to the vibrant world of books and connecting with a community that shares your passion.
So, whether you’re looking to supplement your income or turn your bookish hobbies into a full-time career, there’s a world of opportunities waiting for you.
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