If you love to read and want to get paid for doing so then becoming a book reviewer might be great choice for you. The next question you need answered is how exactly you go about reviewing books and getting paid for it? Here are some tips for breaking into the world of reading, writing and publishing and how you can become a book reviewer.
Qualifications
Becoming a book reviewer isn’t as hard as you think, in fact you don’t need any particular qualifications and you don’t have to go back to university to pursue a degree in English. You will need to have a decent command of the English language and the ability to eloquently express yourself. You need to put yourself in the shoes of the books intended audience and critique the book.
Getting Started
In order to get started you might want to register at some of the reader and book lover sites like GoodReads or LibraryThing. Creating a blog where you can post your reviews may also be a good idea. Since so many book reviewers are independent agents you will have to connect with other reviewers and authors on your own.
Finding Your Own Space
In the beginning you may be willing to review any book that comes your way to build your reputation and some credibility. However you should focus your attention on the kind of books that you like to read. Do you prefer fantasy or romance novels? Whatever genre of novels you like to read in your spare time is what you should pursue. Start out with some Indie authors it is easier to become a reviewer for their books and well established authors already have big sales channels in place.
Getting Paid
In the beginning as you build your following you will probably end up reviewing books for free. Once you have establishes a reputation and have some credentials under your belt then you can approach an author’s association and off reviews at a discounted price. As your reputation grows you can charge more in the future, don’t under-price your services reading a book and preparing a well thought out review takes time and work, you should get paid for it.
Being Impartial
As a book reviewer you have to give your honest opinion and sometimes that is going to be favorable. If you’re getting paid for a review there are many authors who will expect you to write a positive review no matter what. Don’t fall into that trap it will ruin your credibility; a poorly written book is still a poorly written book. You should establish a policy early on that your reviews will be honest regardless of compensation. You can show the author your review before you publish it and offer tips on how the book could be made better.