Children's
Read Children's Classics in English
1,019 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 The Mercer Boys on a Treasure Hunt, The Mercer Boys in the Ghost Patrol and The Mercer Boys at Woodcrest. 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.
- 1,019
- books
Level C1Children'sMildredA stormy evening brings a mysterious letter to Judge Howell, offering him a baby girl to adopt, just as his son returns home burdened by love and loss.
Level C1Children'sMighty Mikko: A Book of Finnish Fairy Tales and Folk TalesDive into enchanting Finnish folklore where clever animals and mystical figures weave tales filled with charm, humor, and the rich spirit of lakes and forests.
Level C1AdventureMiddy and EnsignAboard Her Majesty’s ship “Startler,” a spirited midshipman and a proud young ensign clash amid the vivid tropical backdrop of the Malay peninsula, where British forces prepare for…
Level C1AdventureMenhardocA young Cornish lad on the brink of manhood learns the hard truths of life and strength from his rough but loyal fisherman companion amid the rugged sea and village life.
Level C1Children'sMelchior's Dream and Other TalesA spirited boy at a bustling family’s Christmas learns about sharing, responsibility, and the challenges of growing up with many siblings.
Level C1Children'sMaud Marian, artistMaud Marian, newly mistress of her father’s house, grapples with change and ambition as her beloved aunt marries away, leaving Maud to navigate loss, loyalty, and her own artistic…
Level C1HistoricalMasters of the GuildIn a lively medieval castle, a young pigeon keeper with a special bond to his birds crosses paths with a wandering troubadour, setting the stage for tales of loyalty, music, and th…
Level C1Children'sMary's Meadow, and Other Tales of Fields and FlowersA family’s peaceful life is disrupted when a bitter dispute over a footpath through Mary’s Meadow pits neighbors against each other, revealing challenges of selfishness, sharing, a…
Level C1Children'sMary Wollstonecraft's Original StoriesIn a series of moral tales, the impeccable Mrs.
Level C1AdventureMary Liddiard; Or, The Missionary's DaughterAmidst the lush Pacific islands, a devoted missionary family strives to spread faith and hope to fierce native tribes, while young Mary Liddiard navigates the challenges of culture…
Level C1Children'sMary ErskineChildren from Franconia embark on a journey to visit Mary Erskine, whose remote home lies along a wild, seldom-traveled road.
Level C1AdventureMartin RattlerA young adventurer braves the untamed forests of Brazil, facing wild challenges and thrilling discoveries that test his courage and resilience in this gripping tale of survival and…
Level C1AdventureMarooned on AustraliaSurvivors of the Batavia shipwreck face mutiny, betrayal, and brutal storms as they struggle to survive on a remote Australian island, caught between treacherous seas and restless…
Level C1Children'sMarm LisaIn a struggling city street called Eden Place, a determined woman transforms her corner home into a beacon of hope and moral uplift, challenging poverty and inspiring the community…
Level C1Children'sMarjorie Dean, Marvelous ManagerAt a bustling girls’ dormitory, Marjorie grapples with whether to stay on campus or go home for Thanksgiving, all while rallying her friends to organize a new sorority and pull off…
Level C1RomanceMarjorie Dean's RomanceIn a sunlit study filled with secrets and laughter, Marjorie Dean navigates college life, friendship, and mysterious plans for a daring party at Wayland Hall, where unexpected adve…
Level C1RomanceMarjorie Dean Macy's Hamilton ColonyIn a quiet town awaiting change, Marjorie Dean Macy senses something extraordinary is about to happen as old friends and secrets stir beneath the surface.
Level C1Children'sMarieFleeing a harsh troupe leader, a young violinist named Marie embarks on a new life, carrying her precious instrument and her hopes through a quiet village where children and music…
Level C1Children'sMarcus; or, The Boy-TamerA young boy learns to guide and inspire his peers through everyday adventures, discovering the power of self-governance and moral growth in a series of heartfelt lessons grounded i…
Level C1RomanceMansfield ParkRaised from modest beginnings to Mansfield Park, Fanny Price enters a world of privilege and complex family ties, where love, duty, and social expectations intertwine in a delicate…
Level C1AdventureManco, the Peruvian Chief: Or, An Englishman's Adventures in the Country of the IncasAn English family settles in the rugged Peruvian Andes, where a compassionate father aids oppressed indigenous villagers amid the shadows of the ancient Inca empire.
Level C1MysteryMajor BarbaraIn a grand London home, a determined matriarch confronts her reluctant son about their complicated family and the surprising choices of her daughter Barbara, who has joined the Sal…
Level C1FantasyMaiden Mona the Mermaid: A Fairy Play for Fairy PeopleAmid moonlit caves and enchanted forests, a penniless Gnome King, an audacious rooster, and a mysterious mermaid weave a whimsical tale of magic, friendship, and fortune in a fairy…
Level C1Children'sMaezli: A Story of the Swiss ValleysIn a quiet Swiss valley, children of the Bergmann family explore the mysteries of a silent, ancient castle rumored to be haunted.
Level C1PoetryLyra Heroica: A Book of Verse for BoysDive into stirring verses that celebrate heroism, adventure, and patriotism, as youthful spirits are called to witness the valor and nobility of historic battles like Agincourt, in…
Level C1Children'sLucy Raymond; Or, The Children's WatchwordOn a warm June Sabbath in the village of Ashleigh, three girls from different walks of life gather in Sunday school under Miss Preston’s watchful care, their diverse characters and…
Level C1Children'sLoveliness: A StoryA charming silver Yorkshire terrier named Loveliness watches the world from his cozy window seat, devoted to love and companionship.
Level C1PoetryLove-Songs of ChildhoodDelight in charming poems that capture the magic of childhood—from dreamy lullabies and playful games to nature’s gentle songs and the joyful mischief of youth—each verse a tender…
Level C1Children'sLouis' School Days: A Story for BoysA young boy struggles under the strict tutelage of his new schoolmaster while striving to grow in faith and character amidst the challenges of school life and spiritual warfare.
Level C1AdventureLost in the FogA group of adventurous boys sets sail on the schooner Antelope for an ambitious journey through the Bay of Fundy, hoping to reach distant homes by water.
Level C1Children'sLob Lie-By-The-Fire, The Brownies and Other TalesIn a cozy northern homestead, a mysterious house elf named Lob Lie-by-the-fire secretly aids the farm laborers, while two shrewd sisters quietly manage their inheritance and charit…
Level C1AdventureLittle Rifle; or, The Young Fur HuntersA skilled young trapper navigates the wilds of the Upper Columbia, alone and alert, setting traps and surviving in a rugged landscape filled with danger and mystery—while pondering…
Level C1FantasyLittle Peter: A Christmas Morality for Children of any AgeAmid the towering pine forest, a little boy’s journey unfolds, revealing nature’s secret song of growth, obedience, and self-sacrifice.
Level C1AdventureLittle Oskaloo; or, The White WhirlwindAmid the looming clash between Native tribes and advancing American forces in 1794, two warriors navigate a perilous frontier where alliances, revenge, and survival intertwine.
Level C1HistoricalLittle MetacometIn the peaceful New England woods before King Philip's War, a young Native American boy named Little Metacomet explores nature and the complex world around him, meeting pioneers an…
Level C1Children'sLittle Meg's ChildrenIn the grim labyrinth of London’s East End, young Meg shoulders the weight of caring for her ailing mother and siblings alone, while their sailor father remains far at sea.
Level C1Children'sLittle Frida: A Tale of the Black ForestIn a darkening Black Forest, a woodcutter returns home burdened with a mysterious sleeping child clutching a small book and violin, sparking questions and a tale that will unravel…
Level C1RomanceLittle DorritImprisoned by debt and bound by family duty, Little Dorrit navigates the harsh realities of life inside the Marshalsea prison while dreams of love and freedom flicker beyond its wa…
Level C1HistoricalLittle Annie's Ramble (From "Twice Told Tales")A curious little girl named Annie embarks on a lively ramble through a bustling town filled with exotic creatures, colorful shops, and enchanting sights.
Level C1Children'sLittle AliensIn a bustling school where teachers and mothers often clash, one dedicated educator strives to understand each child's unique needs, uncovering hidden challenges like poor eyesight…
Level C1Children'sLiterature for ChildrenNavigate the world of children’s literature and discover how great books can cultivate a lifelong love for reading, enriching a child's spare hours with poetry, myths, and timeless…
Level C1Children'sLisbeth LongfrockAmid the glittering snow of a Norwegian farm, steadfast Bearhunter guards the mischievous pigs and goats while a curious newcomer approaches along the narrow mountain road, promisi…
Level C1AdventureLion Ben of Elm IslandOn rugged Elm Island, a young boy named Lion Ben grows up amid wild shores, dense forests, and abundant wildlife, learning the values of courage, labor, and honor in the challengin…
Level C1Children'sLight O' the Morning: The Story of an Irish GirlIn a grand but fading Irish estate, young Nora O'Shanaghgan faces the looming loss of her family’s land and legacy, caught between pride, hardship, and the haunting whispers of her…
Level C1Children'sLife's little stageA young girl faces the challenge of leaving school and returning to a home where she feels unwanted and isolated, yearning for true friendship and purpose.
Level C1Children'sLeila at Home: a continuation of Leila in EnglandLeila returns to the warm, lively household near Richmond, where her cousin Selina has miraculously regained her speech.
Level C1FantasyLegends for Lionel: in pen and pencilDelight in a whimsical collection of sketches and stories born from cozy winter evenings, where legends and art intertwine to spark imagination and joy for readers of all ages.
Level C1Children'sLegends That Every Child Should Know; a Selection of the Great Legends of All Times for Young PeopleExplore the origins and evolution of legends, from ancient oral tales of saints to imaginative stories like Robin Hood, revealing how these timeless narratives connect us through s…