In the present context, book reviewing has proven simultaneously to be a constructive pastime and a yielding source of income. Thanks to the widespread reach of “Bookstagram” and “Booktube,” people all around the world are actively contributing to be a part of this genial circuit. Thus, if you are an avid reader looking to make use of your understanding while earning additional benefits by the side, the flexible job of a book reviewer is just for you!
Now let’s begin with the basics, shall we?
Who is a Book Reviewer?
A book reviewer or a book critic, in simple words, is a person who reads books and writes about them. Their job is to share their reading experiences with an audience so the audience can select or reject a book according to their own preferences. Book reviewers dissect the storyline of a particular book, zeroing in on subject matters that could help in a better discussion. Lastly, summing up a manner the book might appeal to the target readers.
There is no specific age range for who could become a book critic. As a profession, it mainly expands out from being a hobby. The working hours for freelance book reviewers are adaptable and easy-going, which makes it a great side hustle for students and full-time office workers. Even if you want to land a gig at publications, book reviewing opens a variety of options for you. Moreover, it is also an excellent and trustworthy career option from a financial point of view. A study shows, professional book reviewers make 21.53$ an hour, which sums up to 44, 791$ a year!
What does Book Reviewing Entail?
Since the title of the position is “book reviewer,” it is only feasible that book reviewing involves reading plenty of books. While book reading is the key activity to becoming an efficient book reviewer, there are other concerns that you are required to pay heed to as well. Mentioned below is a three-stepped guideline that you can follow, to enter the world of book reviewing at ease:
1.The Prerequisites
The first and the most important prerequisite of this profession is- a book reviewer has to read books from different genres, consisting of divergent time frames, multiple points of view, and eccentric authoring patterns. Additionally, they must be well-versed in literary references, sub-tropes, authors, book communities, reader categories, et cetera.
It is the reviewers’ job to incorporate their expertise and opinions on a piece of literature to write a persuasive article of critique. Needless to say, book reviewers need to have a strong knack for simple and accessible writing. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in English Literature can massively aid in that respect.
2. The Three Main Stages
When reviewing a book, it is important to divide it into three manageable sections. The first stage is to share your initial views and experiences with the book in the introduction of the write-up. As a result, the opening line or paragraph of a book review needs to be fascinating and catchy. It should guarantee the reader’s continuation of reading.
The second stage is the most important section of a book review. Here, a critic must eloquently summarize the book’s plot to their readers. Less is more when it comes to using words to outline a book. The reviewer should strictly avoid giving away major plot details when describing the book. After being done with the premise, a reviewer could put forth their compliments and criticisms about the book to their audience. This will let the audience decide whether or not they will appreciate the book.
In the third stage, the reviewer might then recommend the book to a community of readers who are likely to find it enjoyable and mention essential trigger warnings (if any) to conclude the review.
3. The Do’s and Don’ts
The do’s and don’ts of professional book reviewing are very important for the reviewers to keep in mind. A reviewer should avoid using complex, complicated, and lengthy sentences in reviews. Readers are more likely to accept evaluations that are understandable and include clear, concise language.
Again, nowadays, social media plays a significant role in promoting the careers of book reviewers. A reviewer must always try to engage their audience. They should also maintain a healthy network and interact with other reviewers in the community.
Once a reviewer has reviewed books from a pile of assorted genres, he/she can focus on one specific theme as per his/her desires. It will assist the reviewer in attracting a set of devoted audiences who love reading about that specific theme/genre. And the reviewer’s audience engagement rate will tend to remain on the higher end.
The Takeaway
In conclusion, writing book reviews is a great career choice for readers, writers, and those considering a career in the publishing sector. Although it could appear a little challenging at first, with practice you will become more adept. Follow through our suggestions and remember- you just need to start somewhere!
