10 Ways High School Students Can Publish Book Reviews or Criticism

Do you enjoy reading and have opinions about the books that you read? Do you want to share your thoughts, recommendations, or criticisms with the rest of the world? Whether you dream of becoming a literary critic, wish to enhance your college application, or simply want to connect with other book lovers, there are many opportunities for high school students to publish their book reviews or criticisms today. Here are 10 simple and fulfilling ways to get your voice heard:

1. Goodreads

Goodreads is the largest social network in the world for book lovers, and anyone can sign up for a free account to write and post reviews. You can give books ratings, leave elaborate or brief reviews, and participate in discussion groups. Your reviews appear before an international audience, and you can even track authors and other reviewers for motivation.
Cost: Free
Best for: Creating a public review portfolio and interacting with fellow readers.

2. LibraryThing

LibraryThing is another established site for cataloging your home library and publishing reviews of books. Similar to Goodreads, it allows you to write reviews, rate books, and participate in online book clubs or discussion groups.
Cost: Free to use in the basic mode
Best for: Readers who prefer a "more old school" or scholarly feel to their book reviewing.

3. Reedsy Discovery

Reedsy Discovery is a site in which reviewers can sign up to be "approved" and get early access to new books from independent authors. If you're approved, you can post your reviews to a broad audience and even get upvoted by the community.
Cost: Free
Best for: Students reading new releases, indie books, and establishing a reputation as a reviewer

4. Book Riot

Book Riot is a well-liked literary site that sometimes publishes guest posts and book reviews, particularly from underrepresented voices and new writers. Look at their submission guidelines and submit your review or essay to be considered for publication.
Cost: Free
Best for: Thoughtful, original, or themed book criticism for a general online audience.

5. Bookpage, Empty Mirror, and Other Literary Magazines

Several online and print literary journals publish book reviews, particularly of poetry, literary fiction, or independent press work. Some of these include Bookpage, Empty Mirror, Cleaver Magazine, and Guernica. Submission times and requirements are different, so be sure to read thoroughly before submitting.
Cost: Most often free; some pay accepted reviews
Best for: Students willing to write more in-depth, analytical reviews and attempt publishing in the magazine format.

6. The Schola

The Schola is a quarterly scholarly journal printing essays and reviews within the humanities and social sciences, including literature. Students worldwide can submit book reviews or scholarly essays for publication consideration.
Cost: $180 per submission
Best for: Advanced students looking for a challenging, peer-reviewed publication of advanced literary analysis.

7. Curieux Academic Journal

Curieux is a student-run academic journal that accepts middle school and high school students. They produce review articles and essays on all subjects, from the humanities and literature.
Cost: $150 per submission
Best for: Students who need a serious, student-run journal to publish their critical writing.

8. Write the World

Write the World is an international online community of teen writers with monthly contests and themed calls for submissions. You may submit book reviews, criticism, and essays, usually with the potential for receiving expert feedback and publication in their online journal.
Cost: Free
Best for: Teens who seek to become part of a supportive writers' community, participate in contests, and be published.

9. DogoBooks, Bookopolis, and Scholastic's "Share What You're Reading"

These sites are intended for young readers and students. Bookopolis and DogoBooks allow you to leave book reviews for a younger crowd, and Scholastic's "Share What You're Reading" site enables you to write and read peer reviews.
Cost: Free
Best for: Middle and high school students who enjoy reviewing in a lighthearted, school centered setting.

10. Start a Blog or Social Media Review Account

If you desire complete creative freedom, begin a book review blog on platforms such as WordPress, Blogger, or Medium, or set up a specialized Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube channel for book reviews ("Bookstagram" and "BookTok" are extremely popular). This allows you to establish a personal brand, try various review formats, and connect with the world on your own terms.
Cost: Free (basic plans)
Best for: Creative students who want to combine writing, visuals, and even video to share their book opinions.

If you are a high school student pushing yourself to stand out in college applications, RISE Research offers a unique opportunity to work one-on-one with mentors from top universities around the world. 

Through personalized guidance and independent research projects that can lead to prestigious publications, RISE helps you build a standout academic profile and develop skills that set you apart. With flexible program dates and global accessibility, ambitious students can apply year-round. To learn more about eligibility, costs, and how to get started, visit RISE Research’s official website and take your college preparation to the next level!