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 B2Children'sLittle maid MarigoldIn a humble London flat, young Marigold helps her hardworking widowed mother care for her brothers while uncovering the secrets of her family's past and the sacrifices made for lov…
Level B2PoetryLittle Wideawake: A story book for little childrenJoin Rosie, a spirited little girl, and her lively siblings on a snowy countryside adventure filled with playful mischief, unexpected thrills, and heartwarming moments that capture…
Level B2Children'sLittle Tora, The Swedish Schoolmistress and Other StoriesA determined little Swedish girl, longing for new shoes, bravely sings for a kindly doctor and his family, inspired by tales of a famous singer’s success.
Level B2FantasyLittle TomIn a secluded forest hut, a mysterious widow brews powerful herbal remedies that cure the village’s ailments, while ancient legends whisper of knights, ruins, and a precious altar…
Level B2Children'sLittle Tales of The DesertAmidst the rugged desert winter, young Mary experiences a magical Christmas unlike any other, complete with a desert-dressed Santa and surprising gifts.
Level B2Children'sLittle Susy's Little ServantsA curious little girl discovers the mysterious "servants" that help her explore the world—her eyes, ears, and tongue—each revealing new wonders and joys in her everyday life.
Level B2Children'sLittle Susan and her lambOn a summer morning, kind-hearted Susan rescues a weak lamb destined for the market, nurturing it back to health while learning lessons of mercy, faith, and the joy found in kindne…
Level B2Children'sLittle SunbeamBlind since infancy, Peggy "Little Sunbeam" Pringle faces the bustling streets of London with courage and cheerfulness.
Level B2AdventureLittle Snap the Postboy; Or, Working for Uncle SamA young postboy braves a wild mountain route, carrying mysterious messages and encountering shadowy figures who threaten his dangerous journey.
Level B2AdventureLittle Sky-High; Or, The Surprising Doings of Washee-Washee-WangWhen a mysterious Chinese boy named Sky-High arrives to live below stairs, the Van Buren children discover a world of surprising friendships and cultural lessons sparked by his uni…
Level B2PoetryLittle SarahA determined girl races through each step of growing grain to bake her grandmother’s Johnny-cake in record time, discovering the patience and effort behind simple blessings.
Level B2Children'sLittle Saint Elizabeth and Other StoriesAn eleven-year-old heiress raised under the stern care of her austere aunt navigates a lonely life of wealth and sorrow in New York, longing to discover the joys and warmth of chil…
Level B2RomanceLittle Robins' Love One to AnotherIn a charming countryside setting, the lively Robin family navigates lessons of behavior, kindness, and family dynamics as young Jack tests boundaries and each bird learns the valu…
Level B2Children'sLittle Prudy's Sister SusyThree Parlin sisters prepare for Christmas with secret gifts and sibling mischief, revealing their unique personalities and close family bonds.
Level B2Children'sLittle Prudy's Cousin GraceTwo inseparable friends, Grace and Cassy, share dreams, secrets, and the desire to form their own secret society, challenging the boys who claim all the power.
Level B2Children'sLittle PollieA shy little girl ventures into the bustling streets of London to sell violets, learning hard lessons about survival and kindness amid the city's noise and crowds.
Level B2HistoricalLittle Paulina: Christmas in RussiaIn the bleak Russian winter, a determined young girl braves snow and danger to reach her exiled father, guided by a lost stranger whose own hardships intertwine with her perilous j…
Level B2Children'sLittle Nettie; or, Home SunshineA young girl named Nettie brightens her weary mother's life as they prepare their humble home for an unexpected boarder, facing hardship with quiet strength and hope.
Level B2FantasyLittle Mr. Thimblefinger and His Queer CountryOn a lively Southern plantation, a spirited girl named Sweetest Susan and her companions discover a magical world where dolls come to life and mysterious voices emerge from the fir…
Level B2Children'sLittle Miss WeezyToddler Weezy's mischievous adventures unfold as she playfully locks out her caretaker, turning a simple day into a bubbling kitchen chaos.
Level B2Children'sLittle Miss Peggy: Only a Nursery StoryIn a bustling nursery filled with lively siblings, little Peggy navigates the curious rules and whimsical conversations of childhood, all while pondering big questions about the wo…
Level B2Children'sLittle Miss MouseAunt Hester’s Saturday sewing lessons become a window into family history and childhood chores for young Ruth, who navigates the small frustrations and secret joys of growing up wi…
Level B2AdventureLittle Miss JoyIn a quiet seaside town, a weary mother faces loss and hardship as her young son runs away, while a hopeful friend offers a chance for a new beginning amid the restless tides and n…
Level B2AdventureLittle Miss GrasshopperA lively young girl, nicknamed Little Miss Grasshopper for her nimble jumps, eagerly awaits a summer journey to the breathtaking Gemmi Pass in Switzerland, where her family will ex…
Level B2HistoricalLittle Men: Life at Plumfield With Jo's BoysA ragged boy arrives at Plumfield, a welcoming home buzzing with lively children and warm lights, where Aunt Jo’s boys learn, play, and grow together.
Level B2Children'sLittle Maid MarianA thoughtful young girl tests her faith by commanding a distant mountain to move, seeking answers from a kind neighbor while navigating the quiet challenges of childhood and belief…
Level B2AdventureLittle Lucy's Wonderful GlobeWhen little Lucy wakes to find herself covered in mysterious red spots, she embarks on a curious adventure under the care of Mother Bunch and her great-uncle’s wondrous museum, whe…
Level B2Children'sLittle Lord FauntleroyA young American boy, unaware of his noble heritage, lives a quiet life with his ailing mother until secrets about his late father and a distant English grandfather begin to unrave…
Level B2Children'sLittle King DavieIn the chilly streets of Westminster, twelve-year-old Davie earns his keep as a crossing-sweeper while finding refuge in the majestic music and mystery of the Abbey.
Level B2HistoricalLittle HomespunIn a sunny Virginia homestead by the sparkling Potomac, a beloved grandmother and her spirited grandson, Brevet-Captain Joe, embark on charming adventures that blend history with h…
Level B2Children'sLittle Henry and His BirdA young boy’s quiet study in the garden turns into a tender adventure when he rescues a wounded bird, learning about kindness, freedom, and the wonders of nature—alongside a father…
Level B2Children'sLittle HelpersA young boy named Johnny Leslie passionately practices his Fourth of July oration on freedom and rights, sparking curious questions and family discussions that explore the meaning…
Level B2HistoricalLittle GrandmotherBorn at the dawn of the 19th century in a small Maine town, a baby named Patience faces a world full of challenges and hope.
Level B2Children'sLittle GrandfatherA spirited three-year-old boy dressed in charming "pocket-clothes" navigates family teasing and tender love in a bustling household filled with siblings, devoted parents, and loyal…
Level B2Children'sLittle Frankie at SchoolA cheerful new teacher sets up a bright and inviting schoolroom, sparking excitement in young Frankie and Nelly as they prepare to begin their lessons filled with flowers, fascinat…
Level B2Children'sLittle Frankie and His CousinFour-year-old Frankie welcomes his six-year-old cousin Nelly, whose delicate charm and endless toys fill the house with lively adventures.
Level B2Children'sLittle Folks AstrayMischievous children defy bedtime to hear stories and lessons from their elders, while a secret invitation promises a Christmas adventure to visit their Aunt Madge in the city.
Level B2Children'sLittle Fishers: and Their NetsIn a worn-down home where hope seems scarce, a mother's silent struggle unfolds amid hardship and despair.
Level B2Children'sLittle Ferns For Fanny's Little FriendsA gentle collection of heartfelt stories and reflections for children, where little Nelly’s love of nature and family reveals tender moments of childhood wonder and loss.
Level B2Children'sLittle Eyebright and her pund o' careA young woman faces the challenges of family illness, household struggles, and strained relationships, all while preparing for a pivotal visit that could change her life forever.
Level B2Children'sLittle Downy: The History of a Field-MouseA clever little field mouse named Downy faces a looming threat when the farmer plans to thresh the wheat stack she calls home.
Level B2HistoricalLittle Daffydowndilly: (From: "The Snow Image and Other Twice-Told Tales")A carefree boy who loves beauty and play is forced to face the harsh discipline of a strict schoolmaster named Mr.
Level B2Children'sLittle Citizens: The Humours of School LifeIn a bustling Lower East Side school, a dedicated teacher navigates the lively conflicts and heartfelt dramas of her diverse students, revealing the humor and challenges of childho…
Level B2Children'sLittle CinderellaA kind-hearted girl suffers under her cruel stepmother and stepsisters yet dreams of attending the royal ball.
Level B2AdventureLittle By Little; or, The Cruise of the FlyawayA determined young sailor faces the challenges of a stormy sea and friendship tested by daring choices and defiance.
Level B2Children'sLittle Button RoseA young girl named Rosamond arrives at her cousins' gloomy old house for a summer stay, navigating the chilly welcome and unfamiliar surroundings with courage and charm.
Level B2AdventureLittle Bobtail; or, The Wreck of the Penobscot.A young man defies his wealthy father's fierce prohibition to associate with the family of his rival, risking disinheritance and scandal.
Level B2Children'sLittle Bessie, the Careless Girl, or, Squirrels, Nuts, and Water-CressesIn a colorful autumn forest, spirited Bessie and her friend Nellie set out on a nut-gathering adventure, discovering curious creatures and learning about friendship, mischief, and…