20+ Easy Ways to Make Money as a Book Lover Without Quitting Your Job

A common predicament among many of us who grew up loving books and have sustained our reading habits is wanting to do something bookish on the side—without quitting our full-time jobs.

Sure, there are people who turn reading into a career, and that’s awesome, but sometimes making your hobby your paycheck can take the joy out of it.

If, like me, you’ve ever wondered about bookish side hustles that could bring in some extra cash while letting you indulge your love for reading, here are some ideas!

Most of these don’t require special training or hefty startup costs, so you can dive in with little or no money upfront.

And here’s my tip: whatever you choose, go into it with a plan and determination.

Nothing’s impossible, but if you drop it halfway, restarting might feel tough. So, let’s look at some great options and see what speaks to you.

1. Book Subscription Box Service

Creating a book subscription box means curating and selling themed boxes packed with books and goodies like bookmarks, teas, or candles.

If you love recommending books, this lets you share your love of reading with others while making some extra cash on the side.

2. Book Blogging

If you’re up for investing some time and effort, starting a book blog could be your thing.

Review books, share your thoughts, and earn money through affiliate marketing, in-content ads, and sponsored posts.

If hosting a website is out of budget, start with a free blog on WordPress or Squarespace. This was how I started too.

Through ads and affiliate links, my blog covers its own costs, and working with publishers for promo is a bonus!

3. Ghostwriting

If you’re great at storytelling and enjoy helping others bring their ideas to life, ghostwriting might be your best side hustle.

As a ghostwriter, you’ll write stories for clients who don’t have the writing skills.

It’s flexible and usually freelance, so you set your own hours. Or, you could join a self-publishing firm if you’re looking for something steady.

4. Audiobook Narration

Got a great voice? Audiobook narration could be the perfect gig.

You can work with publishers or authors, bringing books to life with your narration while making some serious money.

This side hustle combines a love for reading with vocal talent—and if you enjoy working behind the scenes, this one’s a win.

5. Freelance Editing

If you have an eye for detail and a knack for grammar, consider freelance editing.

This way, you can help authors polish their manuscripts before they go to print.

Setting up a website can help, and you could also get started on freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.

Also See: 14 Bookish Events To Host With Your Fellow Book Lovers

6. Book Translations

Know more than one language? Translating books from one language to another is a valuable skill that’s in high demand.

As authors and publishers expand globally, this side hustle could be your ticket to combining language skills with a love for books.

7. Book Cover Design

If you’re creative and have an eye for design, consider creating book covers.

Self-published authors need skilled designers to make their books stand out, and a well-designed cover is often their first chance to hook readers.

It’s a fantastic way to earn extra income while using your artistic talent.

8. Book Scouting

Book scouting is all about finding valuable or rare books at thrift stores, garage sales, or online and selling them at a profit.

If you’re worried it might feel “wrong,” don’t – The resale price reflects your hard work hunting for these gems—and their market value.

9. Virtual Book Club Hosting

Starting a virtual book club is a fun way to bring readers together.

You could charge membership fees, sell club merchandise, or find other ways to monetize the group.

Remember, people will pay for a unique experience, so think about what would make your book club special.

10. Book-Themed Merchandise Creation

If you’re into crafting, designing book-themed merch like T-shirts, mugs, or tote bags can be a great side hustle.

Sell them on platforms like Etsy or eBay, and let your creativity shine.

Make it unique, and readers will happily support your designs.

Related: 15 Sweet & Low-Key Bookstore Date Ideas for Couples

11. Proofreading

Got a sharp eye for typos and grammar slip-ups? Proofreading might be perfect for you.

Many authors and publishers need proofreaders to catch those last-minute errors before a book goes to print.

This gig is flexible, so you can fit it into your spare time.

12. Book Trailer Creation

If you’re good with video editing, creating book trailers can be a unique way to make extra cash.

Trailers help books get noticed online, and indie authors especially need creative minds to help their work shine.

Plus, it’s a creative way to spread the book love.

13. Author Assistant

Authors often need help with scheduling, social media, and even organizing book tours.

As a virtual author assistant, you’d support them behind the scenes.

This could be anything from answering emails to coordinating book launch events.

14. Beta Reading

As a beta reader, you’ll read early versions of books and provide feedback before publication.

Authors and publishers love honest opinions, so if you enjoy reading and giving feedback, this could be the perfect gig for you.

Here’s a post where I explain the difference between a beta reader and an editor.

15. Bookstagram Influencer

If you’re active on Instagram and love snapping pretty book photos, becoming a Bookstagram influencer could be a dream job.

Partner with publishers or authors to review books, share recommendations, and get paid for promoting new releases.

Also See: 15 Simple Ways To Get Back Into Reading Books (+ Tips To Get Started ASAP)

16. Book Podcasting

Starting a book podcast is a fun way to talk about your favorite reads and make some money through sponsorships or Patreon.

Chat about new releases, interview authors, or deep-dive into classic books.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to connect with other readers.

17. Writing Book Summaries

Not everyone has time to read a full book, but they still want to know the gist.

Writing book summaries for sites or services that pay for quick rundowns is an easy way to turn your reading into cash.

18. Book Event Planner

If you love event planning, you could organize author signings, book festivals, or literary events.

Bookstores, libraries, and indie authors often look for people to help with event planning – especially if you have great ideas to make the events memorable.

19. Selling Digital Printables

Designing and selling book-themed digital printables like reading trackers, bookmarks, or quote prints can be an easy side gig.

Sites like Etsy make it easy to upload your designs and reach a big audience without worrying about shipping or inventory.

20. Running a Book-Themed YouTube Channel

If you enjoy being on camera, consider starting a YouTube channel. Review books, discuss favorite genres, or create book lists.

You can monetize your channel with ads, sponsored content, or affiliate links, and it’s a fun way to share your bookish passion with a wide audience.

Related Post: How to Request ARCs from Publishers and Build Your Reading Stack

21. Narrating for Bookish Apps

Several book-related apps, like those that offer bedtime stories or summaries, need narrators.

If you enjoy reading aloud but don’t want to narrate full audiobooks, apps like these are a great alternative—and they’re always looking for good voices.