Children's
Read Children's Classics in English
6,041 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.
- 6,041
- books
Level B2AdventureDorothy Dale's Camping DaysA carefree camping trip turns into a wild ride when Dorothy and her friends face a runaway hay wagon hurtling toward a river.
Level B2MysteryDorothy Dale to the rescueDorothy Dale returns to a transformed newspaper office, longing for the old days and her role in the Bugle’s legacy.
Level B1AdventureDorothy Dale in the WestTwo friends eagerly await a mysterious surprise from Aunt Winnie while navigating summer’s joys and challenges in the West, encountering intriguing strangers and dreaming of advent…
Level B1Children'sDorothy Dale in the CityAs Christmas break approaches at Glenwood Hall boarding school, Dorothy and her friends navigate the chaos of packing, playful mischief, and unexpected adventures—like a toppled fe…
Level B2Children'sDorothy Dale at Glenwood SchoolAt Glenwood School, Dorothy Dale's life changes overnight when her father inherits a surprising fortune from a distant uncle, promising new comforts and dreams—but also the challen…
Level B2MysteryDorothy Dale and Her ChumsWhen prized pigeons vanish overnight, Dorothy and her friends vow to uncover the thief behind the mysterious disappearance, launching a spirited investigation filled with charm and…
Level B2Children'sDorothy Dainty's Gay TimesA charming private school opens its doors, where Dorothy Dainty and her friends prepare for monthly entertainments and welcome new classmates—including an unexpected boy and a myst…
Level B2AdventureDorothy Dainty at the MountainsTwo friends spend a summer at a mountain hotel, enchanted by echoes and legends, when a mischievous girl with a knack for mimicry stirs up playful trouble, blending adventure with…
Level B2Children'sDorothy Dainty at GlenmoreTwo inseparable friends embark on an exciting new chapter at Glenmore, a fine school for girls, where friendship, mischief, and fresh adventures await amid unfamiliar faces and the…
Level B2Children'sDorothyWhen a mysterious baby named Dorothy is left on their doorstep, the childless Chesters face a surprising new chapter filled with laughter, love, and unexpected joy.
Level B2MysteryDoris Force at Locked Gates; Or, Saving a Mysterious FortuneSixteen-year-old Doris Force’s quiet summer turns mysterious when she receives a strange invitation from two women claiming ties to her late family.
Level B1Children'sDora's mistakeWhen a bout of whooping cough confines a lively family indoors, mischief brews and lessons about idleness, faith, and meaningful work unfold, inspired by the ancient Israelites’ cr…
Level B2Children'sDoraA devoted daughter supports her ailing father through quiet days in a charming park, while they cherish stories of the past and hope for a brighter future together.
Level B1Children'sDooryard StoriesIn a charming yard full of tiny neighbors, a determined little kitten braves cold rain and closed doors, seeking warmth and friendship.
Level B2Children'sDoodles, the Sunshine BoyIn a bustling city, young Blue buys a ragged, injured bird to bring joy to his ailing brother, Doodles, whose spirit shines brightest when singing.
Level B2AdventureDonalblane of DarienIn an age of ruthless monopolies and imperial rivalry, a determined Scotsman leads a bold venture to unlock the key to global trade by conquering the treacherous Isthmus of Darien,…
Level A2AdventureDon, a Runaway Dog: His Many AdventuresFollow Don, a brave puppy, as he opens his eyes to a bright new world and embarks on thrilling adventures—from runaway escapes to unexpected encounters, this heartwarming tale capt…
Level B2HorrorDon't Think About ItA young boy discovers a mysterious, growing hole in his closet harboring a sinister presence that terrifies his beloved toys.
Level B2AdventureDon Sturdy in the tombs of gold; or, The old Egyptian's great secretWhen Don Sturdy’s father mysteriously vanishes in Egypt, a trail of cryptic notes points to a hidden tomb filled with secrets and gold.
Level B2Children'sDon Strong, Patrol LeaderIn a spirited Scout troop, the Wolf Patrol faces a leadership challenge as Phil Morris moves away, sparking a contest for the coveted patrol leader role.
Level B2Children'sDon Quixote of the Mancha, Retold by Judge ParryA middle-aged gentleman obsessed with tales of knights decides to become a Knight Errant himself, donning makeshift armor and setting out on a quest for adventure and honor.
Level B2AdventureDon Hale with the Flying SquadronA young pilot eagerly begins training at the French aviation school, stepping into the perilous skies as part of the legendary Lafayette Escadrille.
Level B2MysteryDon Hale Over ThereAmid the chaos of World War I, young American Don Hale volunteers as a Red Cross ambulance driver near Verdun, facing relentless danger and a haunting mystery surrounding the ancie…
Level B2AdventureDon Gordon's Shooting-BoxAt Bridgeport Military Academy, a strict and proud institution, a group of cadets wrestles with discipline, rivalry, and rebellion, especially as tensions rise around a favored str…
Level B1Children'sDomestic animals: a story book for childrenDiscover the fascinating lives of horses, dogs, cats, pigs, and camels, exploring their unique traits, habits, and roles in human society across different cultures and climates.
Level C1Children'sDomestic Pleasures, or, the Happy Fire-sideAmid a stormy autumn evening, a family gathers by the fire, exploring real-life lessons on compassion, history, and virtue through heartfelt conversations that reveal their own cha…
Level B2Children'sDolly's College ExperiencesA shy freshman faces the loneliness and overwhelming newness of college life, struggling to find her place among strangers.
Level A2Children'sDolly and I: A Story for Little FolksTwo sisters in Riverdale show contrasting hearts—one struggles with envy, the other shares generously—while a precious new doll named Lady Jane brings joy and life lessons about ki…
Level B2AdventureDoing and daringA rugged coach journey through New Zealand's wild bush turns perilous when a wheel breaks off on a narrow mountain road, thrusting a settler family and fellow travelers into a thri…
Level B2Children'sDoing GoodA bright May morning finds little Alice determined to spread kindness throughout her home, caring for her family and even the animals with a sunny heart.
Level A2AdventureDog of St. Bernard and Other StoriesBrave St.
Level A2Children'sDoctor PapaA spirited little girl named Flaxie Frizzle faces a comical mishap when she gets a pencil stuck in her nose, prompting her devoted father, Dr.
Level B2Children'sDoctor MarigoldA man named Doctor Marigold, born into a family of Cheap Jacks, shares his quirky origins and the lively world of his parents' street trade.
Level B2FantasyDoctor Dolittle's Post OfficeAs Doctor Dolittle sails home from Africa with his animal companions, a mysterious woman in a tiny canoe appears, weeping and in danger.
Level B2FantasyDoctor Dolittle in the MoonAn extraordinary voyage unfolds as a doctor and his companions land on the mysterious Moon, exploring its eerie volcanic landscapes and strange new atmosphere while seeking signs o…
Level B1HistoricalDocasJourney back to a Pacific Coast Indian village where young Docas and his family live, play, and learn the ways of their ancestors long before modern settlers arrived.
Level B2AdventureDo and Dare — a Brave Boy's Fight for FortuneA determined young boy fights to keep his mother’s post office job against the powerful Squire Walsingham’s nephew, facing selfish rivals and political influence in their small tow…
Level B1Children'sDixie KittenA curious kitten with striking black and tawny fur explores the sights and sounds of a bustling barnyard, learning about home, family, and the wide world beyond her cozy nest.
Level C1PoetryDivine SongsGentle hymns and simple verses invite children into lessons of faith and virtue, nurturing young hearts with praise, wisdom, and moral guidance.
Level B2Children'sDivided SkatesA spirited girl on roller skates accidentally topples a timid old lady, sparking an unlikely friendship between a lively street child and a dignified woman living alone in a grand…
Level B2Children'sDimple DallasA shy girl faces the challenges of her first day at school, overcoming embarrassment and making new friends, while discovering the wonders of lessons like electricity that spark he…
Level B2Children'sDiligent DickA determined twelve-year-old boy sets out to win a Christmas decorating contract by selling evergreen supplies, aiming to help his family and surprise his father.
Level C1AdventureDikes and Ditches; Or, Young America in Holland and BelgiumYoung sailors aboard the Academy ships face not only the challenges of navigating the calm, looming waters off Holland and Belgium but also the trials of a strict and overbearing i…
Level B2AdventureDigging for Gold: Adventures in CaliforniaAn eighteen-year-old neglected youth, passionate about art but stifled by his harsh uncle’s demands, dreams of forging his own path beyond the grim expectations of work and duty in…
Level B2AdventureDigging for Gold: A Story of CaliforniaA determined sixteen-year-old boy faces hardship and neglect in a struggling household, dreaming of a better life as he confronts his stingy stepfather and contemplates the promise…
Level C1Children'sDigby Heathcote: The Early Days of a Country Gentleman's Son and HeirA spirited nine-year-old boy navigates childhood at Bloxholme Hall, where indulgence meets discipline, and mischief often leads to heartfelt lessons.
Level B2MysteryDig Here!A young girl faces a summer away from her missionary parents, sent to live with her distant Aunt Calliope, whose lonely letters hint at hidden sorrows.
Level B2AdventureDiego Pinzon and the Fearful Voyage He Took Into the Unknown Ocean A.D. 1492In 1492 Andalusia, a daring crew led by the fearless Martin Alonzo Pinzon prepares to embark on a perilous voyage into the uncharted ocean, defying superstition and fear to chase a…