How to Become a Book Reviewer

Do you love to read? Do you love to write, as well? Lucky for you, becoming a book reviewer may be the best choice for you. Most of the starting off book reviewer jobs are not paid. However, you do get to keep all of the books. Most of the time, you even get to pick the book you want.

So how do you write a book review exactly? It is simple. All you have to do is read the book. Then in up to three paragraphs (some people want shorter or longer reviews) give a brief look into the book and your honest opinion on it. When giving a brief look into the book, think more along the lines of back cover, rather than spoiling the book. Whether you liked the book or not, you should always start with what the book is about. Then after that small snippet, you can dive right into how you have never read anything so bad in your life.

Also, when you praise or denounce the book, give reasons why. Do not just say, "This was a great book. I hope everyone reads it." Instead, try something along these lines, "This book's plot captures its reader right away. It is full with juicy detail that has you keep turning the pages until it is done." The opposite is true if you did not like the book. To be considered a professional book reviewer, it is best to critique the work, not thrash it or the writer. An example of this would be to say, "The plot was unclear and did not capture my attention. While this book was full of great diction, I found the characters to dull to care about." You should not say, "This book was horrible. I know of a five year old who wrote better than this. Which ever agent gave this guy the right to publish this should be put to death immediately." So be honest, but give support to your opinions. Also, do not pick on the writer, only critique the work.

A great book reviewer I worked under gave me this great tip for reviewing all books. She said that to get the best review, write it like you are talking to your friend. Then after you are done writing it, read it out loud to see if it flows clearly.

Unite your love for reading and writing with a book reviewer job. You may only be paid with books at first. However, there is the chance that you can work your way up as a book reviewer of a bigger publication: this will pay you in cash and books. Who could have thought of anything better?