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.
- 3,688
- books
Level B2Science FictionOn a lark to the planets: A sequel to "The wonderful electric elephant"Soaring beyond Earth’s atmosphere in a magical balloon, young travelers embark on a breathtaking journey through the solar system, encountering dazzling planets and mysterious cele…
Level B2AdventureOn Your Mark! A Story of College Life and AthleticsAmid the chill of a fading autumn evening, college athletes gather for a tense mile race where seasoned runners face off against ambitious freshmen, including a mysterious freshman…
Level B2Children'sOn Time; or, Bound to Get ThereAn enterprising young man seizes a chance to buy a bankrupt boat at auction, dreaming of turning it into a profitable pleasure craft for fishing and lake excursions, despite doubts…
Level B2Children'sOn Angels' WingsConfined to a turret-shaped window, little Violet watches the world pass by, her heart heavy with the loss of her mother and the burden of her difference.
Level B2MysteryOliver Bright's Search; or, The Mystery of a MineA determined young man embarks on a daring journey west to uncover the truth behind a mysterious mine tied to his ailing father's future.
Level B2PoetryOlive Leaves; Or, Sketches of CharacterA young boy’s secret defiance leads him to a perilous swim in a swift river, where danger and unexpected rescue by strangers test his courage and faith.
Level B2Children'sOld Wonder-Eyes, and Other Stories for ChildrenIn a charming English garden, a surly old owl named "Old Wonder-Eyes" holds a bittersweet secret tied to a gentle girl named Minnie, whose love tamed even the wildest creatures.
Level B2Children'sOld Rough the miserIn a peaceful woodland farm, a fierce feud ignites between a crow and a water-rat over a coveted cornfield, with wise Judge Owl called to settle the dispute.
Level B2Children'sOld Greek StoriesJourney into ancient Greece where mighty beings like Jupiter, Neptune, and Pluto rule the skies, seas, and underworld, weaving tales of power, beauty, and mystery that have enchant…
Level B2Children'sOld Greek Folk Stories Told AnewStep into a world where gods and mortals mingle, and nature itself whispers ancient secrets.
Level B2AdventureOld Gold: The Cruise of the "Jason" BrigUnder the scorching sun of Johnstown, Guiana, a seasoned captain and two determined men confront danger and intrigue aboard the sugar-laden brig Jason.
Level B2Children'sOld French Fairy TalesIn a kingdom ruled by the kind King Benin, his beloved daughter Blondine faces the jealousy and cruelty of her wicked stepmother and stepsister, while navigating palace intrigues a…
Level B2AdventureOld Caravan DaysAs the Padgett family leaves their Ohio farm in 1857 for the untamed Western prairie, young Robert Day and Aunt Corinne embark on a hopeful journey filled with memories and new beg…
Level B2AdventureOff to the Wilds: Being the Adventures of Two BrothersTwo English brothers navigate life on a remote Drakensberg farm, where wild adventures and unexpected friendships with local Zulu boys challenge their notions of loyalty and surviv…
Level B2AdventureOff to Sea: The Adventures of Jovial Jack Junker on his Road to FameA cheerful boy named Jack Junker grows up in a lively, blended family, navigating the challenges of a new stepmother and her unruly children while dreaming of a life at sea.
Level B2AdventureOff Santiago with SampsonA daring boy defies "Keep Out" signs to explore a bustling coal yard where a mighty iron steamer rests silent.
Level B2Children'sOdd made evenBetty grapples with restless moods and life's disappointments beneath her mother's watchful eye in rainy London society.
Level B2Children'sOddIn a cozy nursery barred from the outside world, five spirited children pass the dull winter afternoons with tales spun from the muffin man's rounds—until jealousy, mischief, and p…
Level B2Children'sOakleighIn a grand house named Oakleigh, siblings Edith, Jack, and Cynthia navigate family responsibilities and dreams, as Jack proposes a daring plan to raise chickens for profit—challeng…
Level B2AdventureO'er Many Lands, on Many SeasA sturdy ship and her brave crew face eerie calm and looming danger near a hostile shore in the Indian Ocean, where the mission to end slavery and piracy hangs on the mercy of the…
Level B2AdventureNurse Heatherdale's StoryA devoted nurse reflects on the day she first spotted a charming group of children, setting the stage for a heartfelt tale of care, companionship, and the quiet dramas of everyday…
Level B2Children'sNot Quite EighteenOn a sunlit Midsummer's Day, a mysterious silver mine legend stirs hope in a struggling farm family, while young Hester Gale finds magic and adventure in the seemingly ordinary, ro…
Level B2AdventureNorthland HeroesIn a land of kings and gods, a Viking youth named Frithiof defies lineage and fate to win the heart of princess Ingeborg, sparking a tale of courage, honor, and unyielding love ami…
Level B2AdventureNorthern Lands; Or, Young America in Russia and PrussiaA young scholar with little seafaring skill unexpectedly becomes captain of a training ship, stirring conflict among the crew as they navigate the Baltic and explore the customs an…
Level B2Children'sNorman Vallery; or, How to Overcome Evil with GoodAs Fanny eagerly awaits her family’s return from India, she imagines the joyful reunion with her spirited brother Norman, whose free-spirited nature may bring unexpected challenges…
Level B2Children'sNorma: A Flower ScoutThree girls arrive at a muddy rural station, only to face a lazy, unhelpful driver and a challenging trek to their new home at Green Hill.
Level B2PoetryNonsense SongsEmbark on whimsical voyages with peculiar creatures—from an Owl and Pussy-Cat’s moonlit wedding to a Duck’s daring ride on a Kangaroo’s back—where playful verse and delightful nons…
Level B2AdventureNobody's boy (Sans famille)An orphan boy raised in a poor French village faces hardships and heartache when a family tragedy strikes, setting him on a journey filled with loyalty, friendship, and the search…
Level B2Children'sNobodyWhen Tom meets Lois Lothrop, a simple yet captivating country girl with strong religious convictions, he faces family warnings against a match that could jeopardize his future and…
Level B2FantasyNo-Time-Land: A Story for Girls and BoysIn a world where no one has time for anything, young Guy is whisked away to No-Time-Land, a neglected town frozen in hurry and neglect.
Level B2Children'sNo talent, and Phil's pansiesAmity Bogardus, a wealthy but plain and talentless girl, struggles with self-doubt amid family doubts and social expectations.
Level B2Children'sNo royal roadIn a charming old cottage hidden away from the world, young Lilla grows up under her grandmother’s care, learning valuable lessons about ambition, diligence, and becoming a kind, c…
Level B2Children'sNo and Other Stories Compiled by Uncle HumphreyYoung readers are guided through valuable life lessons about obedience, kindness, and making wise choices, all centered on the powerful impact of the simple word "No.
Level B2AdventureNo Moss; Or, The Career of a Rolling StoneA spirited crew of boys aboard the Storm King yacht embrace naval discipline, camaraderie, and adventure as they drill, race through the rigging, and prepare to prove themselves in…
Level B2MysteryNo Man's IslandThree eighteen-year-old friends navigate a wild, overgrown river island steeped in painful family memories, setting the stage for a mysterious adventure where past grudges and unta…
Level B2FantasyNine Unlikely TalesA young girl dreads a visit to her stern great-aunt but finds herself on an unexpected, enchanting journey when a mistaken omnibus ride leads her far from the dull routine she know…
Level B2MysteryNimble Ike, the Trick Ventriloquist: A Rousing Tale of Fun and FrolicA gifted young ventriloquist, Nimble Ike, faces betrayal and mystery when his mentor leaves him penniless but armed with extraordinary talents and a mysterious box that may hold hi…
Level B2PoetryNight Fall in the Ti-TreeStep into a tranquil world where night descends softly upon the ti-tree, captured through delicate woodcuts and poetic whispers that invite reflection and wonder under the fading l…
Level B2Children'sNiece CatherineA spirited young woman named Catherine navigates new responsibilities as a companion while uncovering family secrets tied to a long-standing feud between two uncles and the tragic…
Level B2Children'sNid and NodIn a quaint little shop, Kewpie Proudtree indulges in sweet treats while grappling with the pressures of sports, friendship, and self-discipline.
Level B2AdventureNic Revel: A White Slave's Adventures in Alligator LandEighteen-year-old Nic Revel navigates the clash between his scholarly pursuits and his sea captain father's rugged world, set against the wild backdrop of salmon-rich rivers and lo…
Level B2Children'sNew Lights on Old PathsIn a countryside inn where honest farmers and wicked forest men clash, the landlord must choose who will stay and who must leave, revealing timeless lessons about character, commun…
Level B2AdventureNew History of the Life and Adventures of Tom ThumbA tiny boy no bigger than a thumb embarks on extraordinary adventures, from escaping a pudding pot to being swallowed by a fish, all while winning the favor of King Arthur and expl…
Level B2Children'sNew Bed-Time StoriesIn bustling London, an aspiring writer finds a quiet refuge and an unexpected companion in Johnny, a silent, wistful boy with a mysterious ailment.
Level B2AdventureNelson the Newsboy; Or, Afloat in New YorkA resourceful fifteen-year-old newsboy navigates the bustling streets of New York, risking everything to survive and rise above poverty.
Level B2Children'sNelly's dark daysIn the harsh streets of Liverpool, young Nelly clings to hope amid poverty and her father's drinking.
Level B2HistoricalNelly's Silver Mine: A Story of Colorado LifeOn a cold Christmas morning, twin siblings Nelly and Rob face the challenges of illness and family care, setting the stage for a heartfelt tale of resilience and life in Colorado’s…
Level B2Children'sNelly's First SchooldaysIn a struggling household overshadowed by hardship, young Nelly faces the challenges of her first schooldays while her sister Elinor battles a devastating illness that changes thei…