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 B2AdventureBert Wilson in the RockiesAs the Overland Limited races through the scorching prairies, three spirited young men revel in their post-college freedom—until masked gunmen storm the train, turning a mundane jo…
Level B2AdventureBert Wilson at the WheelAt a lively summer camp buzzing with excitement, a group of spirited boys eagerly await the arrival of their very own automobile, the "Red Scout.
Level B2AdventureBert Wilson at PanamaThree young American friends journey through a Mexico torn by revolution and danger, bound for the grand opening of the Panama Canal.
Level B2AdventureBeppoIn a forest ruled by a grumpy gorilla landlord, a mischievous little rose-colored monkey named Beppo dreams of imitating humans—starting with stealing a pipe to puff out smoke like…
Level B2AdventureBen, the Luggage Boy; Or, Among the WharvesA teenage luggage boy navigates the bustling wharves and fierce competition of New York’s streets, dreaming of a better life amid hardship and fleeting moments of joy.
Level B2AdventureBen's Nugget; Or, A Boy's Search For FortuneA determined sixteen-year-old miner and his rugged companion guard a valuable gold claim while caring for an injured friend in a remote Sierra Nevada mountain cabin, facing challen…
Level B2Children'sBen Stone at OakdaleA new boy at Oakdale Academy, Ben Stone faces the challenges of fitting in and proving himself, despite his humble background and rough exterior.
Level B2Children'sBen PepperBen Pepper, the dependable eldest sibling, takes charge on a bustling Christmas shopping trip with the younger children, navigating unexpected challenges and heartfelt moments that…
Level B2Children'sBen Holt's good nameIn the crowded alleys of London, young Ben Holt dreams beyond his narrow world, discovering that true wealth lies not in riches but in the strength of a good name earned through ho…
Level B2MysteryBen Hardy's flying machine; or, Making a record for himselfAmid a mechanical disaster at the Saxton Automobile Works, resourceful Ben Hardy races against time to stop a runaway engine and uncover the mystery behind the missing engineer, ri…
Level B2Children'sBen Hadden; or, Do Right Whatever Comes Of ItIn a rugged coastal village where the sea shapes every life, young Ben Hadden joins his hardy fisherman family, learning the ways of the ocean and the strength of faith amidst the…
Level B2AdventureBen Burton: Born and Bred at SeaBorn aboard the HMS Boreas during a daring naval expedition, a boy grows up amid the camaraderie, challenges, and unique life of a ship’s crew, guided by fearless sailors and the f…
Level B2Children'sBelle Powers' LocketA thoughtful little girl dreams of becoming a sunbeam of kindness and light to those around her, learning from friends and her loving father how even small acts can brighten the wo…
Level B2Children'sBeing a BoyA boy navigates the joys and challenges of childhood on a farm, learning responsibility and the art of leadership through playful work with oxen and the strict social order of a he…
Level B2AdventureBehind the Line: A Story of College Life and FootballRival colleges clash fiercely on the football field in a high-stakes Thanksgiving Day game, where grit and strategy shape the fate of Hillton’s team.
Level B2FantasyBee: The Princess of the DwarfsIn a world where the fate of noble houses is marked by mysterious signs, a young princess and a boy destined to be her protector grow up bound by love and destiny.
Level B2Children'sBee and Butterfly: A Tale of Two CousinsIn a small Missouri town, spirited Beatrice "Bee" Raymond devotes herself to studying butterflies, hoping to surprise her distant father, a lepidopterist, with her knowledge as she…
Level B2Children'sBecause of conscienceIn a tense Old New York setting, young Alaine grapples with faith, family loyalty, and secret Protestant meetings, while her cousin Étienne challenges her beliefs with sharp provoc…
Level B2Children'sBeauty and the beastIn a bustling city, a kind-hearted maiden named Beauty shines brighter than her proud sisters, winning the love of all living creatures while facing their envy and cruelty.
Level B2Children'sBeauty and the BeastWhen a once-wealthy merchant loses everything, his kind-hearted daughter Beauty embraces a humble life in the country, while her proud sisters falter.
Level B2Children'sBeauty and the BeastA kind-hearted girl named Beauty sacrifices herself to a fearsome Beast to save her father, discovering a magical palace where she holds unexpected power and companionship.
Level B2Children'sBeauty and the BeastAfter losing their wealth and retreating to a lonely cottage, a merchant’s family faces hardship and despair—except for his youngest, Beauty, whose hope shines bright.
Level B2AdventureBeaufort ChumsAs the Mississippi swells to unprecedented heights, two adventurous boys set out to explore the flooded town and its submerged islands, discovering the thrilling and dangerous powe…
Level B2Children'sBear and forbearA young skipper navigates the rivalry between two wealthy magnates who once divided Lake Ucayga with competing steamboats and railroads.
Level B2Children'sBear Brownie: The Life of a BearFollow the adventures of Brownie, a young bear cub growing up in the Rocky Mountains, as he navigates playful tumbles, sibling mischief, and the wild beauty of his hillside home.
Level B2Children'sBe Polite to AllA lame, modestly dressed man faces rude treatment from a train conductor—only to reveal his true identity as the railway chairman.
Level B2Children'sBe Kind to One AnotherThree young friends face the challenge of earning a coveted school medal amid snowy obstacles, learning the true reward lies in kindness and helping one another through unexpected…
Level B2AdventureBattling the cloudsYoung aviators navigate friendship, duty, and daring adventures at a bustling military airfield, where thrilling flights and unexpected challenges await amid the heat and hum of ai…
Level B2Children'sBattle of the Monkey & the CrabA clever crab and a cunning monkey clash over a persimmon tree, sparking a fierce battle filled with trickery and unexpected allies in this lively Japanese fairy tale of revenge an…
Level B2MysteryBats in the Wall; or, The Mystery of Trinity Church-yardA young man, rejected by his wealthy father-in-law-to-be due to his tarnished reputation and financial woes, faces a harsh ultimatum: prove his worth or lose the woman he loves.
Level B2Children'sBashful FifteenAt a seaside school where fifty girls live and play, excitement stirs over the mysterious arrival of a new girl mid-term—her special treatment and the secrets of the Blue Room spar…
Level B2Children'sBases full!In a thrilling hockey showdown between rival schools Wyndham and Wolcott, every goal counts as the clock ticks down in this fierce battle for victory.
Level B2Children'sBart Stirling's Road to Success; Or, The Young Express AgentA determined young boy steps up to manage the busy local express office while his father battles illness, navigating challenges from grumpy coworkers and the bustling railroad worl…
Level B2MysteryBart Keene's Hunting Days; or, The Darewell Chums in a Winter CampThree schoolboys embark on a secret midnight mission to prank their friend, only to encounter a mysterious stranger sneaking into their school.
Level B2AdventureBarry Wynn; Or, The Adventures of a Page Boy in the United States CongressA fifteen-year-old boy embarks on an unforgettable journey as a newly appointed page in the United States Congress, carrying a vital message that could impact his hometown.
Level B2Children'sBarry Locke, half-backA shy but eager boy arrives at a bustling Connecticut school, navigating new friendships and unexpected challenges as he settles into life away from home.
Level B2Children'sBaron Bruno; Or, The Unbelieving Philosopher, and Other Fairy StoriesIn the prosperous kingdom of Rumpel Stiltzein, Baron Bruno, a fiery and brilliant prime minister, balances statecraft with a secret passion for stargazing, revealing the contrasts…
Level B2Children'sBarbara in BrittanyAs Aunt Anne arrives for a holiday visit, Barbara must manage her lively siblings and the strict relative’s expectations, turning a rainy day into a test of patience, humor, and fa…
Level B2Children'sBarbara Hale: A Doctor's DaughterAt a sun-drenched beach, a lively group plans a house party and debates inviting the mysterious Barbara Hale, the doctor’s daughter known for her wise and different ways.
Level B2Children'sBaby NightcapsDelight in charming bedtime tales filled with laughter, love, and little adventures, as Aunt Fanny shares true stories of children’s joys, sorrows, and the heartwarming moments tha…
Level B2FantasyBaby Jane's MissionAn eight-year-old girl with a tender heart ventures into the African desert to teach wild beasts and children the joy of dancing, hoping to bring fun and kindness to a harsh, misun…
Level B2PoetryBaby ChatterboxDelight in the charming tales of children’s adventures, playful pets, and unexpected visitors like a curious canary seeking a new home.
Level B2Children'sAzalea: The Story of a Little Girl in the Blue Ridge MountainsWake up with the McBirneys at their mountain farm, where Azalea’s world is filled with early mornings, family bonds, and the vibrant life of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Level B2Children'sAzalea's Silver WebA determined young woman in the North Carolina mountains strives to master traditional crafts and uplift her community, all while navigating family challenges and her own dreams.
Level B2AdventureAway in the WildernessA skilled hunter ventures deep into the vast, untamed wilderness of Rupert’s Land, driven by love and the promise of marriage.
Level B2RomanceAunt Patty's paying guestsA young governess, driven by ambition and exhaustion, faces a stern doctor's order to abandon her studies and embrace rest.
Level B2Children'sAunt Milly's diamondsOn Christmas Eve, grandchildren gather around Grandmamma to hear the intertwined tale of Aunt Milly’s dazzling diamonds and a family’s joys, sorrows, and enduring love, set against…
Level B2Children'sAunt MaryIn a charming suburban villa, Aunt Mary, the devoted eldest daughter who never married, embraces her role as guardian and educator to her nieces and neighbors' children, weaving a…