Children's
Read Children's Classics in English
2,322 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 The Mercer Boys on a Treasure Hunt, The Mercer Boys in the Ghost Patrol and The Mercer Boys at Woodcrest. 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.
- 2,322
- books
Level B2Children'sElsie Yachting with the RaymondsJoin Lulu, Max, and their father on a summer journey to Saratoga, exploring historic battlefields and scenic sights along the Hudson River while cherishing family bonds and the joy…
Level B2HistoricalElsie DinsmoreIn a charming old-schoolroom overlooking blooming gardens, young Elsie Dinsmore strives to master her lessons amidst playful sibling antics and strict expectations, revealing her g…
Level B2Children'sElla, a little schoolgirl of the sixtiesAn eight-year-old girl embarks on a new adventure living at a seminary in the countryside, where she must navigate loneliness, new friendships, and the reopening of an old school f…
Level B2Children'sElla Clinton; or, By Their Fruits Ye Shall Know ThemAn affectionate but quick-tempered orphan struggles to find love and guidance under her strict Aunt Prudence’s care, longing for the warmth and patience of her late mother.
Level B2Children'sElizabeth, Her FolksA young girl returns to her grandparents' countryside home after years away, struggling to adjust to their simple ways and unfamiliar customs.
Level B2Children'sElizabeth, Betsy, and Bess—schoolmatesThree schoolgirls—Elizabeth, Betsy, and Bess—navigate friendship, school adventures, and heartfelt moments under the inspiring guidance of their beloved teacher, Miss Jewett, as th…
Level B2Children'sElizabeth Hobart at Exeter HallIn a gritty mining town clouded with coal dust and conflict, young Elizabeth Hobart grows up amidst the harsh realities of industrial life and the quiet comforts of a refined home,…
Level B2AdventureElam Storm, the Wolfer; Or, The Lost NuggetTrapped in a fierce blizzard, three rugged frontiersmen share tales by the fire, while the elusive Elam Storm prepares for his perilous mountain quest.
Level B2AdventureEight Girls and a DogEight adventurous girls from the Blue Ribbon Cooking Club set off for a carefree two-week stay at a beach cottage, ready to tackle cooking, housekeeping, and the challenges of inde…
Level B2Children'sEffie Maurice: Or What do I Love BestA thoughtful young girl grapples with understanding the true meaning of devotion, learning how misplaced love for wealth and status can become modern idols.
Level B2Children'sEdwin, the young rabbit fancier, and other storiesA tender-hearted boy’s desire for a pet rabbit turns into a lesson in care and responsibility when his enthusiasm fades and the challenges of keeping his new companion grow.
Level B2Children'sEdmund Dulac's Picture-Book for the French Red CrossA heartbroken prince, haunted by a dream of a mysterious princess, embarks on a magical quest with the enchanted bird Feng to find the woman who captivates his soul, leading him be…
Level B2Children'sEdith and Her Ayah, and Other StoriesIn colonial India, young Edith’s innocent prayers spark a heartfelt journey to bridge faiths as her family’s gentle example challenges the ayah’s deep-rooted beliefs and ancient cu…
Level B2AdventureEdgar the Ready: A Tale of the Third Edward's ReignAmidst the brutal clashes of Edward III’s reign, a young warrior embarks on a perilous journey through wild lands and fierce battles, facing savage foes and daring exploits that wi…
Level B2Children'sEclectic School Readings: Stories from LifeYoung readers meet Henry Clay, a barefoot mill boy with a lofty dream to become a great orator despite poverty and hardship.
Level B2Children'sEast o' the Sun and West o' the MoonA poor woodcutter’s youngest daughter is whisked away by a mysterious White Bear to a magical castle, where a hidden prince’s secret sparks a daring quest beyond the known world to…
Level B2Children'sEarly candlelight storiesChildren gather for a cozy housewarming in Grandma’s transformed guest room, filled with pets, crafts, and warm stories.
Level B2Children'sDwell Deep; or, Hilda Thorn's Life StoryA young woman, newly orphaned and seeking spiritual depth, moves from a quiet London life to her guardian’s lively country home, where she must navigate faith, family, and the chal…
Level B2Children'sDutch Fairy Tales for Young FolksIn a secret pool where mermaids reign, a proud young mermaid and her family guard their peaceful home from unruly creatures and sea monsters.
Level B2AdventureDusty Diamonds Cut and Polished: A Tale of City Arab Life and AdventureA spirited Shetland pony’s wild escape upends the lives of a spirited young heiress and a mischievous London street boy, sparking a tale of adventure and unexpected friendship amid…
Level B2Children'sDumps - A Plain GirlAt fifteen and nicknamed "Dumps," Rachel struggles with noisy younger brothers and a distant father, finding solace in quiet moments with friends and the challenge of growing up in…
Level B2Children'sDriven from Home; Or, Carl Crawford's ExperienceA determined sixteen-year-old boy sets out alone to seek his fortune after conflicts with his stepmother force him from home, armed only with a small sum, his education, and his st…
Level B2Children'sDriven Back to EdenIn a cramped city home, restless children roam the streets, craving purpose and play beyond their crowded tenement.
Level B2Children'sDreamlandLarry, a dream-filled boy, lies beneath the trees, captivated by fleeting visions of heroic warriors and playful maidens in the sky.
Level B2Children'sDreamikinsTwo curious sisters discover a mysterious locked garden door on their new country estate, leading to a magical world filled with enchanted flowers, rabbits, and unexpected adventur…
Level B2AdventureDreadnoughts of the Dogger: A Story of the War on the North SeaTensions rise at a coastal camp where Sea Scouts spy on naval cruisers and debate the might of the British and German fleets, just as war looms on the horizon and a mysterious pilo…
Level B2AdventureDraw Swords! In the Horse ArtilleryA young artillery officer navigates favoritism and rivalry as he embarks on a challenging new assignment with the prestigious Sixth Horse Artillery in colonial India, where discipl…
Level B2Children'sDr. Hardhack's Prescription: A Play for Children in Four ActsWhen the delicate Emily Proudie falls ill, the witty Dr.
Level B2FantasyDown the Snow Stairs; Or, From Good-Night to Good-MorningOn a snowy Christmas Eve, young Kitty struggles with worry over her ill brother Johnnie, who paints secret worlds of good and naughty children.
Level B2MysteryDown the SlopeA young boy takes his first grueling job in a coal breaker, facing harsh labor, tough rivals, and the struggle to support his mother.
Level B2Children'sDown the River; Or, Buck Bradford and His TyrantsA determined boy endures harsh treatment from the tyrannical Fishley family while navigating challenges on a journey down the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers.
Level B2AdventureDown the Rhine; Or, Young America in GermanyA spirited group of academy students embarks on a grand European adventure, navigating strict discipline, secret orders, and youthful rebellion as they explore the scenic wonders a…
Level B2Children'sDown the ChimneyOn Christmas Eve, Jack Frost awakens a sleepy Chimney and summons the Wind Fairies to bring a magical snowstorm.
Level B2AdventureDown South; or, Yacht Adventure in FloridaEmbark on a thrilling yacht voyage through Florida’s wild waterways, where a skilled captain and his diverse crew navigate rivers, hunt alligators, and explore sunlit southern land…
Level B2Children'sDotty Dimple's FlyawayA bright, whimsical child nicknamed Flyaway takes on the weight of her family's care while navigating the curious adventures of growing up, from mischievous coffee grinding to wate…
Level B2Children'sDotty Dimple at PlayA lively child embarks on a thrilling journey to Indianapolis, where curiosity leads her to discover a school for blind children and the surprising ways they learn and play.
Level B2Children'sDotty Dimple at Her Grandmother'sAmid blooming fields and church steps, young Dotty Dimple navigates childhood's joys and trials, from envies over dresses to lessons in kindness and cheerful giving, discovering ho…
Level B2AdventureDot and the KangarooLost and frightened in the Australian bush, little Dot encounters a gentle kangaroo who offers unexpected friendship and guidance through the wild, mysterious landscape teeming wit…
Level B2FantasyDot and Tot of MerrylandA delicate city girl named Dot escapes to the sunny, sprawling estate of Roselawn for a summer of fresh air and freedom, where playful adventures and magical discoveries await in t…
Level B2AdventureDorymates: A Tale of the Fishing BanksA weary fishing schooner, plagued by misfortune and low spirits, stumbles upon a mysterious wreck—and the unexpected discovery of a baby drifting alone at sea sparks hope and a new…
Level B2Children'sDorothy's TriumphA spirited young girl returns from a Canadian school to her ancestral Maryland home, navigating newfound family ties and the adventures of growing up with the support of Aunt Betty…
Level B2AdventureDorothy's TravelsA young foundling named Dorothy embarks on a summer journey down the Hudson River toward New York and beyond, accompanied by friends and a mysterious mountain girl with a secretive…
Level B2Children'sDorothy's TourAn artistic young girl receives thrilling news that will send her on an exciting journey through the United States and Canada, where music, friendship, and new adventures await.
Level B2Children'sDorothy's House PartyAfter a mysterious night, Dorothy awakens in a charming new home, discovering a surprising inheritance and a warm great-aunt ready to welcome her.
Level B2AdventureDorothy on a RanchA young girl embarks on a thrilling summer adventure to a mountain ranch, leaving behind the comforts of private railcar travel and priceless souvenirs.
Level B2AdventureDorothy on a House BoatAn unexpected gift of a house-boat sets Dorothy and her great-aunt on a new adventure, promising freedom and fun on the river.
Level B2AdventureDorothy at SkyrieNew to country life, Dorothy encounters the lively Babcock sisters who lead her on a wild strawberry hunt and reveal secrets about her mysterious past, sparking an adventurous jour…
Level B2MysteryDorothy at Oak KnoweA young American girl arrives alone at a remote Canadian school, only to find no one there to meet her—until a kindly old teamster offers to guide her through the unfamiliar town a…