Get Paid To Read - Be A Book Reviewer

Anyone who has gone through the steps of being educated in their profession, trade, or vocation, will undoubtedly have a large and growing personal collection of books, journals, and materials for their reading pleasure. As a student, you are part of a captive market, forced to purchase these resources at top dollar.

I recall as a student thinking that I was an unwilling pawn in a get-rich-quick conspiracy for the authors who were flogging their wares like carpet salesmen in a conference room at the airport hotel. I now have a different perspective, the authors are relatively low on the food chain to get paid for books sold.

I am an advocate of using the library as much as possible, not only to read from the current selection but to acquire books and references at a substantial discount, often 2-5% from the original listed price. Still, there are limitations, particularly if you want to get initial insight on the leading thoughts and innovative approaches in your area of interest.

For this reason I propose a very proactive and potentially lucrative approach: review manuscripts for publishers. If you can demonstrate expertise in a relevant area, it would be very helpful to support editors and publishers. Reviewers are asked to read and comment on the technical accuracy and usability of the material, and recommend changes or modifications.

The more complex the subject, the greater the need for substantial editorial review - hence the opportunity is growing. As you review this material, you can incorporate it into your own knowledge base, and continue your professional growth courtesy of the good graces of your editor.

The only question is whether this is worth your time. A manuscript can generally return a few hundred dollars per assignment, depending on the publisher. This may be a pittance when compared to the hourly income a professional can demand. However, as a method of learning new concepts, upgrading skills, and entrenching professional competency; reimbursement is a bonus. For my personal situation, I am able to credit book reviews towards the renewal of my professional certifications.

Some publishers even add a bonus to reviewers; any books reviewed are provided upon publication. This adds to the growing collection and can make for an impressive library (or unimpressive basement clutter). But consider the alternative of purchasing at normal rates. A collection of 10 books/year averaging $50-60 apiece obtained over a span of five years can net a few thousand dollars - enough to justify attending a "conference" in a destination location.

But back to building wealth - knowledge is a fundamental foundation of wealth as it cannot be retracted or removed. Building knowledge increases opportunity and marketability, and adds to your chances of prosperity.