Children's
Read Children's Classics in English
1,007 children's books at CEFR A2 to C2 — learn English by reading the stories worth reading. Select any word for an instant translation, listen to the narration read the page aloud, and save the vocabulary you meet. Pick your level and start with a free sample.
What are the best children's classics to read in English as a learner?
The best children's classics for English learners are the well-known titles you can read in the original — start with Those Dale Girls, Those Brewster Children and Thistle and Rose: A Story for Girls. Each one is labelled with a CEFR level, any word you do not know is one selection away from a translation, and the narration reads the page aloud while it highlights the words.
- 1,007
- books
Level C1HistoricalThe Master of the ShellAmidst the lively routines and rivalries of Grandcourt School, a new vacancy for the esteemed Master of the Shell stirs ambitions and tensions among masters and boys alike.
Level C1FantasyThe Marvellous History of the Shadowless Man, and The Cold HeartA man mysteriously loses his shadow, setting off a surreal journey through strange encounters and inner turmoil, while another tale weaves the chilling saga of a man whose heart tu…
Level C1Children'sThe Marvellous Adventures and Rare Conceits of Master Tyll Owlglass: Newly collected, chronicled and set forth, in our English tongueDive into the witty escapades of Master Tyll Owlglass, a clever peasant whose sharp humor and daring tricks expose the follies of society and clergy in medieval Germany, blending l…
Level C1Children'sThe MarriagesAt a lavish London gathering, young Adela Chart navigates the imposing world of high society and complex family dynamics, all while sensing the subtle intrigues swirling around her…
Level C1Children'sThe Maker of Rainbows, and Other Fairy-tales and FablesA struggling poet in Harlem trades his last prized possession for a rose to win his sweetheart’s heart, only to discover that forgotten dreams can hold unexpected treasures in a wo…
Level C1Children'sThe Magnificent AmbersonsIn a Midwestern town flourishing with old-world elegance and shifting fashions, the Amberson family’s grandeur shapes the lives and rivalries of its members as the city around them…
Level C1RomanceThe Love Affairs of PixieA lively young woman confronts her plain looks and dreams of a daring transformation—a nose reshaped in Paris—sparking playful fantasies and heartfelt conversations that explore ch…
Level C1AdventureThe Lost Treasure of Trevlyn: A Story of the Days of the Gunpowder PlotAmidst fierce clashes of faith and family loyalty, a young man defies his father's strict Catholic beliefs in a turbulent England on the brink of the Gunpowder Plot.
Level C1AdventureThe Lost Mountain: A Tale of SonoraA caravan of miners and their families trek through a parched Sonoran plain, desperate for water and hope, guided by Pedro Vicente, a seasoned gold-seeker, toward the legendary Los…
Level C1FantasyThe Lost CityAmidst a brewing tempest, a quirky trio of adventurers confronts strange weather phenomena hinting at deeper mysteries.
Level C1AdventureThe Lost ChildA wild, fearless boy living by a remote river becomes captivated by the mysterious forest across the water, despite warnings of danger and the lurking Bunyip beneath the stones.
Level C1AdventureThe Lord of Dynevor: A Tale of the Times of Edward the FirstIn the shadow of Dynevor Castle, four brothers await news from distant lands as their homeland teeters on the brink of war under English rule.
Level C1AdventureThe Lonely Island: The Refuge of the MutineersBeneath a tranquil Pacific sunset, simmering tensions aboard a British ship threaten to ignite mutiny as sailors chafe under Captain Bligh’s harsh rule, setting the stage for a des…
Level C1AdventureThe Lone RancheAmid the harsh, war-scarred plains near Chihuahua, a mysterious Kentuckian observes a vivid religious procession, hinting at untold adventures in a land haunted by conflict between…
Level C1AdventureThe Log of a PrivateersmanAmidst the perilous seas of wartime, a daring crew sets sail on a newly outfitted privateer, chasing fortune and adventure after their merchant ship’s audacious capture and recaptu…
Level C1AdventureThe Log House by the Lake: A Tale of CanadaAfter losing their fortune, the Ashton family resolves to start anew in Canada, embracing hard work and adventure as they build a life together in the wilderness.
Level C1AdventureThe Lively Poll: A Tale of the North SeaAmid the bustling North Sea fishing fleet, Admiral Manx Bradley commands nearly two hundred vessels in a daring, coordinated night haul, where strength, skill, and unity face the u…
Level C1Children'sThe Little ViolinistTwo young twins arrive unexpectedly, seeking care, school, and love, while their guardian balances nurturing with playful adventure.
Level C1AdventureThe Little SavageStranded alone on a rocky island after a shipwreck, a boy grows up under the harsh rule of his father's murderer.
Level C1Children'sThe Little Quaker; or, the Triumph of Virtue. A Tale for the Instruction of YouthTwo wayward brothers, scornful of their father's lessons, clash with Josiah, a kind-hearted Quaker boy whose gentle virtues starkly contrast their rebellious ways.
Level C1HistoricalThe Little Maid of IsraelIn ancient Israel, a crippled boy anxiously awaits news of his sister Leah, who lingers in Samaria after hearing rumors of the prophet Elisha’s miraculous power to raise the dead.
Level C1Children'sThe Little Lady of the HorseA curious young girl and her loyal companion explore the mysteries of their coastal world, from the shimmering sea to the secrets of aging, in a tender tale of friendship, discover…
Level C1Children'sThe Little Hunchback ZiaA deformed boy named Zia flees a cruel home, hiding by day and wandering by night, haunted by fear and rejection.
Level C1PoetryThe Lion's Masquerade: A Sequel to The Peacock at HomeStep into a whimsical world where animals host grand masquerade balls, blending charm and satire in elegant verse and vivid engravings.
Level C1AdventureThe Lion of the North: A Tale of the Times of Gustavus AdolphusAmid the raging floods of 1630 Scotland, a determined youth risks the deadly waters to guide two horsemen safely across a swollen river, setting the stage for a harrowing tale of c…
Level C1RomanceThe Lion and the Mouse; a Story of an American LifePowerful railroad directors clash over a legal battle that threatens their empire, exposing the ruthless greed behind the industry’s grip on America.
Level C1HistoricalThe Lily's Quest (From "Twice Told Tales")Two lovers set out to build their dream summer-house, a Temple of Happiness, in a picturesque spot where joy and innocence will flourish—only to face the shadow of past sorrows tha…
Level C1AdventureThe Lily of LeydenAmid the turmoil of 1574 Leyden, a city scarred by siege and strife, the noble Jaqueline—known as the Lily of Leyden—stands poised between duty and danger as the Dutch struggle for…
Level C1Children'sThe Lilac Fairy BookStep into a magical world where timeless fairy tales from across Europe come alive, filled with enchanted creatures, brave heroes, and wondrous adventures passed down through gener…
Level C1AdventureThe LifeboatIn the gritty, bustling heart of London’s docklands, a shipowning firm hides stories of ambition, hardship, and survival amid the squalor and noise.
Level C1HistoricalThe Life and Perambulations of a MouseTrapped by a fierce winter at Meadow Hall, a lively group entertains themselves by sharing life stories—until a surprising request comes from an unexpected guest: a talking mouse e…
Level C1FantasyThe Life and Letters of Lewis Carroll (Rev. C. L. Dodgson)Explore the fascinating life behind the whimsical worlds of Lewis Carroll, revealing the man’s boyish amusements, academic achievements, and the inspirations that gave birth to Won…
Level C1HistoricalThe Life Savers: A story of the United States life-saving serviceDiscover the heroic evolution of the United States Life-Saving Service, from early volunteer efforts to a disciplined, nationwide force dedicated to rescuing shipwreck victims alon…
Level C1Children'sThe Legend of the Bleeding-heartIn a forest where all things speak, a kind old Flax-spinner raises an orphan girl, Olga, weaving magic from her own heart's blood to protect her.
Level C1HistoricalThe Legend of Sleepy HollowIn a quiet valley steeped in eerie legends and haunted by the spectral Headless Horseman, a sleepy Dutch settlement harbors mysterious dreams and ghostly tales that blur the line b…
Level C1MysteryThe Legacy of CainInside the walls of an English prison, a governor recounts the chilling case of a woman condemned for the cold-blooded murder of her husband—a tale of passion, premeditation, and t…
Level C1FantasyThe Laughter of Peterkin: A retelling of old tales of the Celtic WonderworldAwaken beneath a moonlit poplar, Peterkin glimpses tiny, laughing moonshine-folk dancing among the leaves, their mysterious songs echoing ancient Celtic magic.
Level C1Children'sThe Laughing Prince: Jugoslav Folk and Fairy TalesIn a world where three brothers follow different paths, the youngest, Stefan, finds joy and magic in farm life, charming animals and telling stories, all while facing his skeptical…
Level C1HistoricalThe Last Look: A Tale of the Spanish InquisitionIn 16th-century Seville, a young girl’s innocent faith challenges the imposing Bishop whose troubled past haunts his visit to her family’s beautiful mansion.
Level C1Children'sThe Land of Lost ToysIn a nursery where toys meet untimely fates, mischievous Sam stages a grand show recreating the city of Lisbon on the morning of a historic day, inviting his steadfast sister Dot t…
Level C1HistoricalThe King's DaughtersIn 1556 Colchester, the lives of women intertwine over the choice of gowns and fabrics, revealing secrets, social tensions, and whispers of heresy in a world where every decision c…
Level C1Children'sThe King of the Golden RiverIn a hidden mountain valley blessed by the shimmering Golden River, three brothers face the mysterious Southwest Wind, Esquire, who disrupts their peaceful lives—setting the stage…
Level C1AdventureThe Kangaroo Hunters; Or, Adventures in the BushA grieving rector struggles to overcome his loss and wavering faith, torn between staying in his parish or embracing missionary work in distant lands.
Level C1HistoricalThe Junior Classics, Volume 7: Stories of Courage and HeroismDive into true tales of bravery spanning history—from the heroic stand of Catherine Douglas to the daring adventures of a kidnapped boy among Native Americans—each story vividly br…
Level C1HistoricalThe Junior Classics, Volume 4: Heroes and heroines of chivalryEnter a world of knights and legendary quests, where young pages train to become noble warriors, mastering chivalry, combat, and honor in tales of King Arthur, Robin Hood, and Don…
Level C1Children'sThe Junior Classics, Volume 1: Fairy and wonder talesA carefully curated collection of timeless fairy and wonder tales invites young readers to explore enchanting stories that inspire imagination, moral growth, and a lifelong love of…
Level C1AdventureThe Jungle Fugitives: A Tale of Life and Adventure in India: Including also Many Stories of American Adventure, Enterprise and DaringAmid the rising flames of the 1857 Indian uprising, an American doctor and his daughter navigate a land on the brink of chaos, where loyalty, love, and survival intertwine against…
Level C1PoetryThe Jumblies, and Other Nonsense VersesDive into a whimsical world where curious creatures embark on fanciful adventures, from sailing seas to dancing with animals, all brought to life by playful verses and charming ill…