How to Become a Freelance/Telecommute Book Reviewer
If you're someone who's well-read, you'd readily see the difference between a book which is a must-read and one which isn't. Not only have you read a number of books, but you've also been a bookworm all your life!
Not all people, however, are self-confessed bookworms and potential book reviewers. Thus, the world needs individuals like you who want to become a freelance reviewer. In your own way, you help see to it that outstanding books make it to the best-seller list. Mediocre ones at least get a well-meant, honest review from you.
On being a freelance reviewer
To many people, freelance book reviewing is such a dream job! You do nothing else but read and evaluate a book. You get paid to enjoy its contents and examine it from cover to cover. Aside from that, there's not much else.
This is so false! There are readers who think that they can get away with skimming a book and skipping the plot. They race to the finale of cashing a check.
These shortcuts, however, tend to deceive and mislead the population about the real quality of a publication. Thus, publishers and editors have become choosy and discriminating about the freelance book reviewers they accept.
These days, you have to submit proof that you are, indeed, a major in English or Journalism and that you possess the credentials for a valid review. Otherwise, you must have a portfolio to prove that you've reviewed some books before.
The specialty and its challenges
Most people are skeptical about a paid review because it insinuates that the reviewer's findings are intended to promote the book. All objectivity is lost, and the review is nothing more than propaganda on the net.
However, if you don't lose this objectivity and if you only agree to do a review which is unbiased, then all hope's not lost. You don't defeat the very purpose of a book review which is to get an honest critique.
On becoming good at what you do
Step 1: Write a sample book review.
If you've never reviewed a book before, your best recourse is to write reviews on novels and classics which you've already read. Each review would run for around 600 words, and this equates to about 1-1/2 pages long.
Step 2: Volunteer your services.
To make up for your lack of experience, volunteer your services to publishing houses. Once your application is approved, you'll receive the books you requested. And although you don't usually get paid for volunteering, you do receive free books as added perks. The first perk, of course, is having read the sample for free.
Step 3: Express your personal opinion.
When you're reviewing, you're expressing more of your personal opinion. Since opinions vary from person to person, your review will be unique and original.
You may discuss a few highlights of the plot, but you never give away the entire story. There's always the element of suspense and surprise to attract more readers and invite them in.
Step 4: Follow the guidelines.
If you do get the opportunity to be granted a review, give it your best shot! Read the instructions carefully and follow the guidelines given. Make your writing consistent with the publication's style. Once you're able to impress a large publication, you could become one of their regular freelance reviewers for a nominal fee.
(C) WritingBids.com
Not all people, however, are self-confessed bookworms and potential book reviewers. Thus, the world needs individuals like you who want to become a freelance reviewer. In your own way, you help see to it that outstanding books make it to the best-seller list. Mediocre ones at least get a well-meant, honest review from you.
On being a freelance reviewer
To many people, freelance book reviewing is such a dream job! You do nothing else but read and evaluate a book. You get paid to enjoy its contents and examine it from cover to cover. Aside from that, there's not much else.
This is so false! There are readers who think that they can get away with skimming a book and skipping the plot. They race to the finale of cashing a check.
These shortcuts, however, tend to deceive and mislead the population about the real quality of a publication. Thus, publishers and editors have become choosy and discriminating about the freelance book reviewers they accept.
These days, you have to submit proof that you are, indeed, a major in English or Journalism and that you possess the credentials for a valid review. Otherwise, you must have a portfolio to prove that you've reviewed some books before.
The specialty and its challenges
Most people are skeptical about a paid review because it insinuates that the reviewer's findings are intended to promote the book. All objectivity is lost, and the review is nothing more than propaganda on the net.
However, if you don't lose this objectivity and if you only agree to do a review which is unbiased, then all hope's not lost. You don't defeat the very purpose of a book review which is to get an honest critique.
On becoming good at what you do
Step 1: Write a sample book review.
If you've never reviewed a book before, your best recourse is to write reviews on novels and classics which you've already read. Each review would run for around 600 words, and this equates to about 1-1/2 pages long.
Step 2: Volunteer your services.
To make up for your lack of experience, volunteer your services to publishing houses. Once your application is approved, you'll receive the books you requested. And although you don't usually get paid for volunteering, you do receive free books as added perks. The first perk, of course, is having read the sample for free.
Step 3: Express your personal opinion.
When you're reviewing, you're expressing more of your personal opinion. Since opinions vary from person to person, your review will be unique and original.
You may discuss a few highlights of the plot, but you never give away the entire story. There's always the element of suspense and surprise to attract more readers and invite them in.
Step 4: Follow the guidelines.
If you do get the opportunity to be granted a review, give it your best shot! Read the instructions carefully and follow the guidelines given. Make your writing consistent with the publication's style. Once you're able to impress a large publication, you could become one of their regular freelance reviewers for a nominal fee.
(C) WritingBids.com