Children's
Read Children's Classics in English
2,794 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.
- 2,794
- books
Level B2AdventureIn Times of Peril: A Tale of IndiaAmid the tranquil British cantonments of 1857 India, young Ned and Dick Warrener navigate the challenges of colonial life just as unrest begins to stir.
Level B2HistoricalIn The Boyhood of Lincoln: A Tale of the Tunker Schoolmaster and the Times of Black HawkIn the rugged Illinois frontier, a dedicated Tunker schoolmaster shapes young Abraham Lincoln’s character amid pioneer hardships, Indian tales, and the trials of early American set…
Level B2AdventureIn Texas with Davy CrockettTwo young men aboard a steamboat on the Mississippi sense danger as suspicious figures watch their every move, hinting at a secret mission linked to the brewing conflict in Texas.
Level B2Children'sIn Sunny Spain with Pilarica and RafaelA young girl’s embroidery struggles lead her into the enchanting gardens of a faded Moorish palace, where riddles, music, and family tales bring the magic of sunny Spain to life in…
Level B2FantasyIn Story-landA kind-hearted, plain little girl named Beta finds purpose in bringing joy to her village through simple acts of kindness, while a wise but lame giant watches over them all from hi…
Level B2AdventureIn Search of the Okapi: A Story of Adventure in Central AfricaTwo friends embark on a daring expedition into Central Africa's vast, uncharted forest—one chasing the mysterious okapi, the other seeking his missing father's hidden journal and t…
Level B2HistoricalIn Search of a SonIn the serene French countryside, a man receives a mysterious telegram that promises the return of an old friend, sparking hope and anticipation in his quiet château.
Level B2AdventureIn Search of TreasureA bright young man torn between academic success and a thirst for adventure discovers a mysterious chest belonging to his late sailor uncle, sparking a quest that could unveil secr…
Level B2AdventureIn School and Out; or, The Conquest of Richard Grant.Richard Grant, a boy with a troubled past and a noble heart, navigates dangerous scrapes both in school and on the Hudson River.
Level B2AdventureIn Savage Africa: Or, The adventures of Frank Baldwin from the Gold Coast to Zanzibar.A young boy's school days end abruptly when he receives a thrilling invitation to join his father's ship, embarking on a voyage from the Gold Coast to Zanzibar.
Level B2AdventureIn Paths of Peril: A Boy's Adventures in Nova ScotiaA resilient boy and his devoted aunt escape war-torn France to begin anew in wild Nova Scotia, where adventure and new alliances await amid untamed lands and indigenous tribes.
Level B2AdventureIn New Granada; Or, Heroes and PatriotsAmidst the lush landscapes of New Granada, a naval surgeon and his young ward face capture and peril after a hunting expedition turns deadly, sparking a daring struggle for freedom…
Level B2AdventureIn Honour's Cause: A Tale of the Days of George the FirstTwo young courtiers navigate the stiff, formal life of the royal palace amid whispers of loyalty and power in the days of George the First, craving freedom beyond the heavy Dutch e…
Level B2Children'sIn HomespunIn a quiet English village, a spirited young girl takes on the task of caring for her cantankerous Aunt Maria, whose sprained ankle sets the stage for family secrets, rivalries, an…
Level B2AdventureIn Greek Waters: A Story of the Grecian War of IndependenceA young scholar, captivated by his Greek heritage and fueled by a passion for his ancestral land, embarks on a journey into the turbulent early years of the Greek War of Independen…
Level B2AdventureIn Far Bolivia: A Story of a Strange Wild LandDeep in the uncharted wilderness of Bolivia, explorers face mysterious tribes and untamed landscapes beyond civilization’s reach.
Level B2FantasyIn Camp With A Tin SoldierA curious boy hears the distant beat of soldiers' drums and discovers his favorite picture—a quiet country lane—beginning to come alive with mysterious movement.
Level B2Children'sIn Blue Creek CañonIn a smoky mountain town, a lively group of children race across a frozen pond, eagerly awaiting the arrival of their mysterious cousin Charlie MacGregor, whose presence promises t…
Level B2Children'sIda's new shoesA lively little girl named Ida struggles with her temper while showing off her new shoes, all under the watchful eyes of her ailing mother and caring family.
Level B2AdventureHurrah for New England!: Or, The Virginia Boy's VacationA reluctant Virginian sets sail on a rugged New England fishing schooner to cure his health, accompanied by his adventurous cousin who discovers the charm and independence of coast…
Level B2AdventureHunting the Skipper: The Cruise of the "Seafowl" SloopTwo young midshipmen aboard H.
Level B2Children'sHunter's MarjoryA lonely girl burdened by secrets and denial finds an unexpected friendship in new neighbors who offer kindness and understanding.
Level B2Children'sHow the Fairy Violet Lost and Won Her WingsA fairy loses her wings and embarks on a perilous journey to the fiery kingdom to reclaim them, only to discover that new wings may bring unintended harm to the world she loves.
Level B2AdventureHow Sammy Went to Coral-LandDive into the enchanting underwater world with Sammy, a proud young salmon, as he embarks on a wondrous adventure through coral reefs, meeting fascinating sea creatures and discove…
Level B2HistoricalHow Private George W. Peck Put Down the Rebellion: or, The Funny Experiences of a Raw Recruit - 1887A reluctant recruit joins a cavalry regiment late in the Civil War, expecting an easy ride and a quick payday.
Level B2Children'sHow John Became a Man: Life Story of a Motherless BoyA young boy named John faces the loss of his mother on the prairie and must grow quickly, learning to pray and take on new responsibilities as he navigates loneliness, friendship,…
Level B2Children'sHow Janice Day WonIn the lakeside town of Polktown, young Janice Day faces the challenges brought by new liquor licenses, growing troubles, and the impact on her community.
Level B2Children'sHousehold Tales by Brothers GrimmWhen a princess loses her beloved golden ball in a deep well, a mysterious frog offers to retrieve it—on the condition that she welcomes him as her companion.
Level B2Children'sHousehold Stories by the Brothers GrimmEnter a world where rabbits host wedding feasts under rainbows and daring adventurers with extraordinary talents band together to challenge fate, braving enchanted forests and roya…
Level B2Children'sHorse TalesOn John Dobbin’s bustling farm, the old mare Sally tries to keep order among a mischievous donkey, curious animals, and unexpected visitors while her master is away.
Level B2HistoricalHope and Have; or, Fanny Grant Among the Indians: A Story for Young PeopleA mischievous girl faces a stern warning: behave well or be sent away to live among the Minnesota Indians during a time of great unrest.
Level B2Children'sHope Benham: A Story for GirlsA spirited young girl from the working-class town of Riverview sells delicate arbutus flowers at the elegant Brookside station, navigating the contrast between two worlds as she pu…
Level B2Children'sHonoring ParentsA young boy shows kindness and forgiveness at school, honoring his mother’s teachings even when she’s not present.
Level B2AdventureHonor Bright: A Story of the Days of King CharlesA young boy named Charles, confined in a tower room overlooking a vibrant garden, grapples with mysterious sorrow despite his privileged surroundings and gifts.
Level B2Children'sHonor Bright: A Story for GirlsTwelve-year-old Honor Bright faces life as an orphan in a Swiss boarding school, carrying distant memories of exotic lands and loving parents lost to a sudden tragedy.
Level B2AdventureHoney-SweetAs the steamship Caronia prepares to sail, young Anne navigates the bustling chaos of the dock, her keen eyes catching glimpses of strangers, secrets, and a worried uncle whose mys…
Level B2Children'sHollyhock: A Spirit of MischiefIn the serene Upper Glen, two families—one naming their daughters after flowers, the other their sons after precious stones—live peaceful lives until a mysterious letter arrives on…
Level B2Children'sHollowmellA spirited schoolgirl named Minnie battles her careless habits and social challenges as she navigates friendships and responsibilities at her lively school.
Level B2AdventureHollowdell Grange: Holiday Hours in a Country HomeOn a scorching midsummer day, young Fred Morris journeys to Hollowdell station, where cousins Harry and Philip eagerly await his arrival.
Level B2AdventureHolidays at BrightonTwo boys explore the bustling seaside town of Brighton, discovering its sparkling sea, grand pier, and strange new buildings while learning about the engineering marvels and seasid…
Level B2Children'sHoliday storiesIn a grand estate shadowed by an irritable matriarch, a devoted maid endures sharp tempers and long years of service, revealing the complex ties of loyalty and hardship beneath the…
Level B2Children'sHoliday TalesSeven spirited brothers imagine grand adventures and dream of transforming their rough "desert" into a beautiful garden to brighten their ailing mother's days, blending childhood m…
Level B2Children'sHoliday Stories for Young PeopleA young girl named Milly Van Doren is entrusted to keep house and care for her grandmother while her parents travel, leading her to eagerly organize a social club and face the real…
Level B2Children'sHold fastA blind grandfather shares a heartfelt story with his granddaughter about faith, sin, and salvation, revealing how even the most faithful must rely on mercy to find hope.
Level B2Children'sHold 'em, Wyndham!At Wyndham School, football coach G.
Level B2Children'sHistory of my petsA young girl finds unexpected joy and companionship in a beautiful white kitten named Keturah, whose playful antics and loyal presence brighten her days and even accompany her to a…
Level B2HistoricalHistory of Orrin PierceRaised by a devout mother in a quaint cottage by the sea, young Orrin Pierce learns Scripture and the wonders of nature, nurturing a tender faith and a heart longing for holiness.
Level B2HistoricalHistoric Girls: Stories Of Girls Who Have Influenced The History Of Their TimesDiscover the inspiring stories of young girls across history who defy their times with courage, wit, and heart, from the dazzling ancient city of Palmyra to far-reaching lands, pro…