20 Best Sites To Get Paid To Read Books Aloud In 2025

Do you love reading books and can read them aloud? Reading books aloud has become a unique and popular way to earn money.

In today’s digital age, numerous websites and platforms are connecting avid readers with paid gigs to narrate audiobooks, e-learning materials, and even children’s stories.

This article will walk you through the best sites where you can get paid to read books aloud, what you’ll need to get started, and tips to succeed in this growing industry.

Let’s dive in!

What Does It Mean To ‘Get Paid to Read Books Aloud’?

Getting paid to read books aloud involves using your voice to narrate written content, transforming it into an audio format that people can listen to. 

This process is referred to as voice narration or audiobook narration. It is a job that requires a mix of storytelling, creativity, and technical skills. 

When you read books aloud, you bring the stories and information to life for an audience. Your voice becomes the medium through which listeners connect with the content. 

You may be paid to narrate:

• Audiobooks: Fiction or non-fiction books for platforms like Audible or iTunes.

• Educational materials: Textbooks, e-learning modules, or training manuals.

• Children’s stories: Tales that entertain and educate young listeners.

The demand for narrators has grown with the rise of audiobooks and other audio content. 

According to Words Rated, the audiobook market globally is worth more than $5.3 billion and is projected to reach $35 billion in 2030.

People are looking for convenient ways to consume content. Busy schedules mean many people prefer listening to books during their commute, while working out, or as a way to unwind.

Because of this demand, companies are willing to pay for skilled narrators who can deliver high-quality audio recordings.

How Much Do Book Narrators Make?

Getting paid to read books aloud can be a rewarding and profitable opportunity. 

ZipRecruiter reports that the annual pay for a narrator in the USA is an average of $80,759 a year.  

The earnings depend on the type of project, your experience, and payment terms. 

Book narrators are commonly paid per hour, per finished audio hour, or through royalty share agreements. 

For beginners, the earnings are around $300 to $1,000 per month, and for experienced narrators $2,000 to $5,000 per month or more.

What You Need for Earning by Reading Books Aloud

To start earning by reading books aloud, you’ll need to have the right tools, skills, and environment to set you up for success. 

These include;

1. A clear voice

Your voice is your most important tool. To succeed, you’ll need to speak clearly and maintain a consistent tone and volume.

Practice your reading skills and experiment with different tones to help you improve. Consider basic voice training. 

Learning voice modulation, breathing techniques, and proper pacing can make your narration more engaging. You can find free resources online or take professional voice training courses to refine your skills.

2. Quiet recording space

A quiet and controlled environment will enhance the quality of your recordings. Create a makeshift studio at home by:

• Using a small, enclosed space like a closet.

• Adding soundproofing materials such as foam panels, blankets, or carpets to reduce noise and echo.

3. Quality recording equipment

Investing in good equipment ensures professional-quality audio. At a minimum, you’ll need a microphone, headphones, and a pop filter to reduce popping sounds.

You’ll also need a computer or laptop with enough processing power to handle recording and editing software.

4. Recording and editing software

You’ll need software to record and edit your audio files. Free programs are available but professional software like Adobe Audition offer more advanced features.

Sites to Get Paid to Read Books Aloud

1. ACX

ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange) is a platform owned by Amazon. It connects authors, publishers, and rights holders with narrators and producers to create audiobooks.

You’ll need to sign up using your Amazon account. As a narrator, you'll audition for projects by submitting samples. 

If you are selected, you'll produce the audiobook for distribution on Audible, Amazon, and iTunes.

It is your responsibility to negotiate terms with the author. You can be paid per finished hour immediately after the project is done or through royalty share paid out monthly.

Payments are made by direct deposit or check. 

2. Findaway Voices

Findaway Voices by Spotify connects narrators with authors and publishers to produce audiobooks. The platform offers distribution to various retailers and libraries.

To start, you’re required to create an account and submit an application with samples of your work. Once you’re accepted the platform recommends you to authors for work related to your skills. 

Rates are negotiated per project, ranging from $150 to $400 per finished hour, depending on experience and project requirements.

Payments are processed through direct deposit, check, PayPal, and wire transfer.

3. Bunny Studio

Bunny Studio is a platform that connects clients with freelancers specializing in audio such as voice-over and audiobook narration work.

The platform emphasizes quick turnaround times and high-quality output. To start getting paid to read books aloud, you create an account and pass a skills assessment. 

As a freelancer, you set your rates based on experience and project complexity. 

The payments are received for each audio file submitted, provided it passes quality control, regardless of client acceptance.

Payments are processed through Wise, wire transfers, and Payoneer.

4. Voice Crafters

Voice Crafters is a platform that connects professional voice actors with clients seeking voice-over services.

The platform caters to a global clientele, offering opportunities in various languages and genres.

To work with Voice Crafters, you’ll need to have a minimum of 5 years in commercial voice-over work. They also require high-quality samples demonstrating your range and capabilities.

Earnings vary per project, with experienced narrators commanding higher fees ranging from $200 to $500 per finished hour or more.

5. Voice Jungle

Voice Jungle is a platform that offers voice-over services, including audiobook narration, to a diverse clientele. 

The site focuses on efficiency, providing clients with quick access to voice talent without the need for auditions.

Narrators, referred to as voice talent are contacted when a paying job is available. 

To be part of the talent, you’re required to fill out a form, upload a demo of your work, and wait to be contacted once you are accepted. 

6. Spoken Realms

Spoken Realms is a niche platform dedicated to audiobook narration, offering opportunities for narrators to collaborate with authors and publishers on high-quality productions.

They focus on high-quality storytelling and offer distribution services to various platforms. To work with Spoken Realms, you need to be a storyteller with experience.

To join and get started, submit an application showcasing your portfolio and narration samples.

7. Voices

Voices is a marketplace connecting voice actors with clients seeking various voice-over services. The platform allows you to create a profile, showcase your skills, and audition for projects.

You need to sign up and build a profile highlighting your experience and demo samples. A great profile boosts visibility to potential clients.

While you can register for free, a premium subscription is available and it offers increased visibility and access to more job postings.

Voices uses an escrow system called SurePay ensuring payments are held securely and released upon project completion and approval.

8. The Voice Realm

The Voice Realm is focused on simplifying the hiring process for voice-over professionals. 

It allows narrators to work with clients on audiobooks and other projects directly, with no middlemen. 

The platform promotes its transparent and user-friendly approach to negotiations. To work as a narrator, you need to submit high-quality demos showcasing your voice versatility.

While they prefer some experience, fresh talent with exceptional demos also get hired. Submit your details and demo on this page to get started.

9. Brilliance Publishing

Brilliance Publishing is a subsidiary of Amazon Publishing known for creating audiobooks across multiple genres. 

They collaborate with newcomers and experienced narrators to deliver compelling audio content to their audience.

Narrators are encouraged to send voice samples and resumes directly to the company via email.

10. Mandy Voices

Mandy Voices is a comprehensive platform for freelance voice professionals, offering diverse opportunities.

The site functions as a job board where narrators can browse, apply, and secure gigs tailored to their skills and preferences.

To join, you need to create a detailed account showcasing your voice-over expertise and demo recordings.

Mandy Voices charges a monthly membership fee but new users can explore the platform through a free trial period.

Rates vary based on the project type and client budget, with some jobs paying a flat fee and others offering hourly or per-word compensation.

11. Voices123

Voice123 is a pioneering marketplace that connects voice actors with clients seeking various voice-over services.

As one of the largest platforms in the industry, it offers a wide variety of opportunities for both beginners and seasoned professionals.

To get started, sign up on the site and set up your profile providing your details, skills, experience, and demos. 

The site offers a free membership and a premium subscription to enhance your profile visibility and access to more job postings.

12. VOPlanet

VOPlanet is a voice-over casting platform that offers a straightforward approach for voice actors to find and audition for projects.

The platform emphasizes a commission-free model, allowing you to keep 100% of your earnings.

VOPlanet requires a paid membership to access job postings and audition opportunities. 

While open to all experience levels, having a professional demo and prior experience can enhance your chances of securing jobs.

Earnings vary depending on the project's scope and the client's budget.

13. Bodalgo

Bodalgo is an international voice-over casting platform. Known for its user-friendly interface, it offers opportunities across multiple languages and dialects.

It offers both free and premium memberships, with premium members receiving access to a broader range of jobs.

Start by creating a free profile with professional demos showcasing your voice-over skills.

Earnings are project-specific and negotiated directly with clients. Bodalgo does not take commissions, allowing you to retain full earnings.

14. Backstage

Backstage is a well-established platform in the entertainment industry offering casting opportunities including narration.

It is a platform for actors, voice talents, and other performers to find and apply for various roles.

Like other sites, you create a profile but access to job listings requires a subscription, with various plans available.

Earnings depend on the specific project and are negotiated directly with clients.

15. Voquent

Voquent is a global voice-over agency that offers a platform for voice talents to showcase their skills and connect with clients seeking narrators for audiobooks and other projects.

Joining the platform requires signing up and uploading demos in various genres to demonstrate your versatility.

Payment terms and methods are agreed upon between you and the client, offering flexibility and control.

16. Internet Jock

Internet Jock is a professional voice-over service that connects clients with voice talents.

Voice talent are referred to as jocks. You can join to be one by filling in your details and uploading your demo audio.

The company values voice talent that are patient and professional with the ability to provide quick turnaround times of 1-2 hours during regular business hours.

Earnings vary based on project scope and client budget.

17. Outschool

Outschool is an online education platform that allows educators to teach live, interactive classes to students worldwide.

It is not specifically focused on audiobook narration but creative educators can design classes around reading books aloud, storytelling, or even teaching narration skills.

A requirement to join is to submit a class proposal outlining your course structure and objectives. You will undergo a background check to ensure the safety of students.

Instructors set their prices for classes. Earnings depend on class pricing, enrollment numbers, and frequency of classes. 

18. Freelancing Platforms

Freelancing platforms offer a marketplace to find a variety of narration gigs. These platforms need you to create a compelling profile showcasing your skills.

Once your profile is set, you submit tailored proposals to clients outlining how you can meet their project needs.

The earnings vary based on the client's budget, project complexity, turnaround time, and experience. You get to negotiate with clients and pay a commission to the platform once the project is complete.

Freelancing platforms that you can get paid to read books aloud include;

• Upwork

• Fiverr

• Freelancer

• People Per Hour

19. Job Boards

Online job boards list various opportunities for audiobook narrators and voice-over artists. 

You need to regularly browse these sites to find both freelance and full-time positions in audiobook narration.

Once you find a job that matches your skills, apply with a tailored cover letter, resume, and, when possible, your narration work.

You also need to be prepared to undergo interviews or auditions as part of the hiring process.

Salaries and rates vary based on the employer, project scope, and experience. Some positions offer hourly rates, while others provide fixed fees per project.

Job boards to consider for narration jobs include;

• Indeed

• Glassdoor

• FlexJobs

• ZipRecruiter

• Craiglist

• Simply Hired

20. Social Media

Lucrative and yet overlooked sites to find opportunities to read books aloud are social media platforms. 

You can leverage social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, X, TikTok, and Instagram. They can help you network with authors, publishers, and other industry professionals seeking narrators. 

You can use the platforms to showcase your skills and engage with relevant communities to attract potential clients.

To get started create and maintain professional profiles on one or two social media platforms. Next, actively engage with groups, forums, and communities related to audiobooks and voice-over work.

Share samples of your work, testimonials, tips, and behind-the-scenes content to demonstrate your expertise and attract clients.

Your earnings will depend on the clients you attract and the rates you negotiate. Building a strong online presence can lead to direct client inquiries and potentially higher-paying opportunities.

Other Ways to Get Paid to Read Books Aloud

If joining audiobook platforms or freelancing isn’t your ideal route, there are other creative ways to get paid for reading books aloud.

They include;

1. Reading Sessions

You can host reading sessions for children, book clubs, or community events. 

Libraries, schools, and online platforms often look for individuals to read books aloud for educational or entertainment purposes.

Reading sessions may not always have a fixed rate. Some organizations pay $20–$50 per session, depending on the event size and duration. 

Hosting regular sessions can build your reputation, opening doors to higher-paying gigs.

2. Podcasting

Starting a podcast allows you to read books aloud or narrate original stories. 

Podcasts focused on storytelling, audiobook previews, or dramatized readings can attract listeners and sponsors.

To get started, pick a niche, invest in basic podcast equipment, and start recording. Finally, distribute your podcast on platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Podcasters earn money through sponsorships, donations from listeners, or ad placements.

3. Self-Publishing

If you love writing and narration, self-publishing your audiobook can be a lucrative option. 

Platforms like Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) allow you to publish audiobooks alongside eBooks and paperbacks.

Self-published audiobooks earn royalties per sale.

4. YouTube Channel

You can create a YouTube channel dedicated to reading books aloud or narrating short stories. YouTube creators earn money through ad revenue, sponsorships, and memberships.

5. Teaching Narration Skills

If you have experience in audiobook narration, consider teaching others how to get started. Many aspiring narrators are willing to pay for coaching or online courses.

Tips for How to Get Paid to Read Books Aloud

To make money by reading books aloud, using the right strategies can help you find opportunities and maximize your earnings. Below are some helpful tips to get you started.

• Develop your skills

• Invest in quality equipment

• Build a portfolio

• Start with smaller projects

• Network actively

• Sign up for multiple platforms

• Learn basic audio editing

• Be open to feedback

• Specialize in a niche

• Stay consistent

Other Jobs for Book Lovers

• Proofreading and Editing Books

Proofreading and editing require a keen eye for detail and solid grammar skills. 

As a proofreader or editor, your job is to ensure books are free from spelling errors, grammatical mistakes, and formatting issues before publication. 

• Start a Book Review Blog

A blog allows you to discuss your favorite books, analyze themes, and recommend new reads to your audience. 

As your blog grows, you can monetize it through affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and partnerships with publishers.

• Work for Book Review Platforms

Platforms pay readers to review books. These reviews often help authors improve their work. You can find these opportunities on sites like Kirkus Reviews, Online Book Club, and Reedsy Discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can anyone be an audiobook narrator?

Yes, anyone with a clear speaking voice and a passion for storytelling can become an audiobook narrator.

2. Can I earn a full-time income by reading books aloud?

Yes, it is possible to earn a full-time income as an audiobook narrator if you build a strong portfolio and establish connections in the industry.

3. Do you need previous experience to get paid to read books aloud?

No, previous experience is not necessary to get started. Many platforms welcome beginners, as long as you have a good voice, a sample portfolio, and a willingness to learn. Taking courses or classes in voice acting and narration can boost your skills and make you more competitive.

4. How long does narrating take?

The time required to narrate a book depends on the book's length and complexity. On average, narrating one finished hour of an audiobook can take 4 to 6 hours of recording and editing.

5. Are there books that are more profitable for paid reading?

Yes, certain genres can be more lucrative than others. For example, self-help, business, and educational books often pay higher rates because of their specialized content and target audience. Fiction genres like romance, mystery, and fantasy are also in high demand, though competition can be high.

Conclusion

Getting paid to read books aloud is a huge industry that can make you a substantial amount of money.

With the right skills, tools, and determination, you can turn your love for reading into a sustainable income source.

If you’re ready to take the first step, explore the platforms and opportunities discussed in this article. Start by creating your portfolio, investing in quality equipment, and actively seeking gigs.

Don’t wait for the perfect moment—start building your narration career today!