Children's
Read Children's Classics in English
3,688 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 Æsop's fables in words of one syllable, Æsop's Fables: A Version for Young Readers and Æsop's Fables, Embellished with One Hundred and Eleven Emblematical Devices.. 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.
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- books
Level B2AdventureRalph Denham's Adventures in Burma: A Tale of the Burmese JungleA young man faces the weight of family loss and duty as he prepares to leave his struggling home in Liverpool for a new life working in a rice firm in distant Burma.
Level B2Children'sRalph Clavering; Or, We Must Try Before We Can DoAn orphaned girl arrives at her strict uncle's grand estate, where her wild cousin Ralph’s unruly temper threatens to derail both their futures.
Level B2HistoricalRainbow ValleyIn the tranquil village of Glen St.
Level B2Children'sRaggetyA scruffy little yellow terrier named Raggety arrives with a playful spirit and sad eyes, sparking a tender bond with a kind soul.
Level B2Children'sRaggedy Ann storiesIn a cozy attic, a forgotten rag doll named Raggedy Ann is rediscovered and comes to life, leading a delightful band of dolls on playful adventures filled with friendship and fun.
Level B2Children'sRaggedy Andy storiesEnter a world where rag dolls come to life with warmth and adventure, as Raggedy Andy joins Raggedy Ann in tales filled with friendship, laughter, and the magic of childhood imagin…
Level B2Children'sRagged Dick, Or, Street Life in New York with the Boot-BlacksA scrappy young bootblack navigates the tough streets of New York, earning his way with honesty and charm despite ragged clothes and a harsh world.
Level B2AdventureRaftmates: A Story of the Great RiverA proud boy embarks on his first journey down the mighty Mississippi aboard the Venture, a finely crafted raft carrying lumber and wheat to distant markets.
Level B2AdventureRadio Boys in the Secret Service; Or, Cast Away on an IcebergTwin brothers Walter and Guy Burton, radio enthusiasts with a knack for wireless technology, embark on thrilling adventures that combine cutting-edge radio communication with darin…
Level B2AdventureRadio Boys in the Flying Service; or, Held For Ransom by Mexican BanditsWhen a daring bank robbery leaves a wounded father and stolen cash, three resourceful young men race against time using planes and radio to track down the bandits escaping through…
Level B2MysteryRadio Boys Loyalty; Or, Bill Brown Listens InTwo ingenious friends enter a prestigious technical school where their skills and loyalty are tested against hazing and rivalry.
Level B2Children'sRadio Boys Cronies; Or, Bill Brown's RadioTwo determined boys, one strong and the other a lifelong cripple, join their schoolteacher to explore the wonders of a new radio receiver, tuning in to exciting broadcasts about gr…
Level B2Children'sR. Caldecott's Picture Book (No. 1)Join the whimsical adventures of John Gilpin as he rides beyond his intentions, explore the tangled tales of the house that Jack built, and uncover charming stories filled with hum…
Level B2Children'sQuicksilver: The Boy With No Skid to His WheelA grubby, golden-haired toddler plays joyfully by a woodland pool, captivating passing strangers who wonder about his origin.
Level B2Children'sQuicksilver SueA lively girl named Sue buzzes with excitement over the arrival of Clarice, a stylish new neighbor whose father is a wealthy mill agent.
Level B2Children'sQueer little peopleA lively young hen named Mrs.
Level B2Children'sQueer Little FolksA lively young hen, Mrs.
Level B2AdventureQueensland CousinsAmid the rugged beauty of Queensland, a lively family awaits a long-anticipated parcel from England, revealing the tensions and tender bonds that shape their adventurous frontier l…
Level B2Children'sQueen HildegardeA delicate, discontented fifteen-year-old girl named Hilda seems in need of a change as her parents debate where she might find health and happiness.
Level B2Children'sQueechyA spirited young girl and her cheerful grandfather set off on a rustic autumn outing, finding joy in simple pleasures despite worn equipment and quiet worries.
Level B2Children'sPussy MeowFollow the heartfelt tale of Pussy Meow, a cat who shares her joys and sorrows, revealing the misunderstood life of felines and inspiring kindness toward our silent companions.
Level B2FantasyPuck of Pook's HillTwo children’s midsummer play awakens the mischievous Puck, who invites them on a magical journey through England’s ancient past, where history and legend come alive beneath the hi…
Level B2Children'sPsycheHigh atop a mountain, a lonely princess with delicate, jewel-streaked wings longs to escape her vast castle and soar beyond the endless horizons.
Level B2Children'sPrudy Keeping HouseFour young siblings face a snowy day with curiosity and kindness, while their aunt must leave to care for a sick relative—leaving Prudy eager to take charge and keep the grand hous…
Level B2Children'sProfilesA thoughtful young woman embarks on her first solo trip, urged by her pastor to keep her "hands clean" in more ways than one.
Level B2Children'sPrincess Sukey: The story of a pigeon and her human friendsWhen a sickly pigeon chick is rejected by its own family, a kind-hearted boy named Titus takes her in, sparking an unusual friendship filled with care and adventure amid the challe…
Level B2Children'sPrincess Sarah, and Other StoriesAn orphaned girl, sheltered from the noisy city street, faces a sudden change when her late father's letter brings a mysterious aunt to her humble home—offering hope, kindness, and…
Level B2Children'sPrincess Polly's Gay WinterIn a charming town called Avondale, young Rose Atherton moves into a grand new home beside her friend Polly and her elegant cat.
Level B2Children'sPrincess Polly At PlayPrincess Polly and her friends eagerly anticipate a summer of seaside adventures, sailing, and mystery at Cliffmore.
Level B2HistoricalPrincess Belle-EtoileThree radiant siblings, born with stars on their foreheads and jewels in their hair, are set adrift by jealous relatives but saved by a corsair's family.
Level B2FantasyPrince Ricardo of Pantouflia: Being the Adventures of Prince Prigio's SonIn a kingdom where fairy gifts shape destinies, Prince Ricardo defies expectations by shunning books and chasing wild adventures, much to his clever father King Prigio’s concern.
Level B2FantasyPrince Prigio: From "His Own Fairy Book"In the whimsical kingdom of Pantouflia, where ancient legends awaken and dragons turn into princesses with a kiss, a royal baby boy is born amid skepticism about fairies and magic,…
Level B2AdventurePrince Jan, St. BernardIn the snowy Alps, young St.
Level B2AdventurePrince Dusty: A Story of the Oil RegionsTwelve-year-old Arthur, teased and outcast by his cousins, embarks on a daring adventure with his cousin Cynthia as they imagine themselves a prince and princess exploring a world…
Level B2PoetryPretty Verses for All Good Children: In Words of One, Two, and Three SyllablesGentle tales and simple verses teach young readers the value of honesty, kindness, and the beauty found in everyday life—using only words of one, two, and three syllables to deligh…
Level B2Children'sPrecepts in Practice; or, Stories Illustrating the ProverbsOn a frozen lake, two brothers reveal contrasting paths: one carefree and defiant, the other patient and devoted, as they navigate the challenges of family duty and the wisdom of h…
Level B2AdventurePost HasteIn a rugged Irish coastal village, young Philip Maylands idolizes the daring yet troubled George Aspel, whose Viking heritage fuels dreams of adventure and freedom amidst harsh sea…
Level B2Children'sPop-Guns: One Serious and One FunnyJoin a lively group of children as they become the spirited "Pop-gun Children," learning valuable lessons about kindness and good habits through playful tales filled with warmth an…
Level B2Children'sPoor and Proud; Or, The Fortunes of Katy Redburn: A Story for Young FolksIn a struggling coastal town, young Katy Redburn faces poverty and pride with courage and kindness as she seeks to care for her sick mother and navigate the challenges of childhood…
Level B2Children'sPoor Blossom: The Story of a HorseBorn into a world where horses serve man, a young colt learns early lessons about kindness, duty, and the complex relationship between master and beast.
Level B2Children'sPollyanna Grows UpA spirited young nurse confronts her sister's deep sorrow and bitterness, challenging her to embrace hope and purpose beyond grief.
Level B2HistoricalPollyannaA stern woman reluctantly agrees to care for her late sister’s lively eleven-year-old daughter, whose arrival promises to stir the quiet household and challenge its somber ways.
Level B2Children'sPolly: A New-Fashioned GirlUnder a scorching July sun, a spirited girl named Polly sneaks through fields and gardens, capturing the attention of birds and family alike.
Level B2Children'sPolly's senior year at boarding schoolReturning as seniors to Seddon Hall, Polly and Lois navigate the excitement and challenges of their final year, balancing old friendships with new faces amid the vibrant autumn set…
Level B2Children'sPolly's first year at boarding schoolThirteen-year-old Polly leaves her quiet New England life to face the bustling halls of Seddon Hall boarding school, where new friendships, mysterious teachers, and the challenges…
Level B2RomancePolly's Business VentureReturning to America with a mysterious wireless message in hand, Polly Brewster navigates friendship, flirtation, and the thrill of a secret admirer aboard an Atlantic liner—where…
Level B2Children'sPolly of Pebbly PitOn a remote farm nestled in a volcanic crater, young Polly tends to her beloved burro, Noddy, whose near-tragic accident reveals the deep bond between them and the wild, untamed la…
Level B2PoetryPoems Every Child Should Know: The What-Every-Child-Should-Know-LibraryDelight in a carefully curated collection of poems, chosen for their appeal and memorability, from beloved voices that inspire young minds to explore rhythm, story, and imagination…