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.
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Level B2Children'sChicken Little Jane on the Big JohnAt thirteen, Chicken Little Jane defies her mother's wishes for a ladylike life, preferring adventures across the ranch and losing herself in romantic novels.
Level B2Children'sChicken Little JaneIn a small town, curious and spirited Chicken Little Jane unravels the mysterious past of Alice, a servant girl with a surprising connection to her own home, sparking a heartfelt t…
Level B2AdventureChester Rand; or, The New Path to FortuneIn a small Pennsylvania village, hardworking Chester Rand struggles to support his widowed mother on a meager salary, facing the harsh realities of poverty and a stingy employer.
Level C1PoetryChenodia: Or, the Classical Mother GooseNursery rhymes take on classical form and ancient languages in a playful collection blending Latin, Greek, and English verses.
Level C1Children'sChaucer for Children: A Golden KeyEnter a world where love’s fierce battles, irresistible temptations, and the shadow of death intertwine in vivid tales brought to life for young readers.
Level B2HistoricalChatterbox Stories of Natural HistoryExplore the fascinating lives of animals from the majestic Golden Eagle to the playful American black bear, capturing their instincts, habitats, and tender bonds in vivid, engaging…
Level B2AdventureChasing the SunA daring young manager with a restless spirit sets off on a thrilling three-month voyage to Norway, chasing the sun aboard his trusty schooner, accompanied by his loyal old seaman.
Level B2AdventureChasing an Iron Horse; Or, A Boy's Adventures in the Civil WarAmid the stormy backdrop of the Civil War, a daring band of Union soldiers plot a secret mission to capture a Confederate train in enemy territory.
Level C1Children'sCharlotte TempleA young soldier becomes captivated by Charlotte, a graceful girl from a boarding school, sparking a tale of innocence, vulnerability, and the challenges faced by a young woman navi…
Level C1AdventureCharlie to the RescueBorn with a fearless spirit and a passion to help others, young Charlie Brooke’s heroic journey begins with daring rescues that test his courage and quick wit—from extinguishing fl…
Level A2Children'sCharlie and His Puppy BingoCelebrate turning five with Charlie, a lively boy who receives exciting gifts like a pedal automobile and new toys, and discovers the joy of birthday letters and surprises that spa…
Level B2Children'sCharlie Scott: or, There's Time EnoughA young boy named Charlie Scott navigates the challenges of a changing life at sea after his mother's death, joining his father and uncle on a voyage that promises new adventures a…
Level B2AdventureCharlie Codman's Cruise: A Story for BoysFourteen-year-old Charlie Codman struggles to help his family while dreaming of education, but a chance encounter with an eccentric miser sets him on an unexpected and challenging…
Level C1AdventureCharlie Bell, The Waif of Elm IslandAn English orphan, cast adrift and friendless, finds refuge on a rugged Maine island where danger and adventure lurk in the form of ruthless men posing as fishermen.
Level B2HistoricalCharley's Museum: A Story for Young PeopleA curious twelve-year-old boy receives a special attic museum filled with exotic shells and natural wonders from his uncle, inspiring him to explore the fascinating creatures behin…
Level B2Children'sCharley's Log: A Story of Schoolboy LifeTwo schoolboys, Charley and Tom, navigate the challenges of boarding school life while dreaming of the sea and adventure.
Level A2Children'sCharles' Journey to France, and Other TalesJoin Charles as he sets off on a vivid journey through fields, rivers, and woods, discovering animals, windmills, and the vast, mysterious sea on his way to France, exploring the w…
Level B1Children'sCharles Dickens' Children StoriesIn a bustling London neighborhood, cheerful porter Trotty Veck and his devoted daughter Meg share warmth and kindness despite hardships, as they welcome an orphaned child and face…
Level B2Children'sCharity's birthday textOn her tenth birthday, kind-hearted Charity enjoys simple gifts and warm family moments, unaware that her peaceful life may soon face unexpected trials.
Level C1Children'sChanticleer: A Thanksgiving Story of the Peabody FamilyOn a serene Thanksgiving morning, the venerable Sylvester Peabody reflects on life, loss, and family as the idyllic countryside glows with the soft light of Indian summer, weaving…
Level B2Children'sChange Signals: A Story of the New FootballAt Yardley Hall School, football season kicks off with spirited rallies, determined players, and lessons in school loyalty.
Level C1RomanceChance: A Tale in Two PartsA young seaman reflects on the pride and challenges of maritime life, navigating the uncertainties of career and fate.
Level A2Children'sChambers's Elementary Science Readers: Book IExplore the curious habits and unique features of household pets through a child's eyes, as Harry observes the secret lives of cats and dogs with gentle wonder and simple science.
Level C1Children'sCeltic Tales, Told to the ChildrenIn a kingdom ruled by King Concobar, a magical prophecy foretells that the birth of a star-eyed girl will bring great sorrow, forcing the king to protect her despite the ominous fa…
Level C1Children'sCeltic Fairy TalesDive into a rich collection of Celtic folk tales where ancient heroes, mythical creatures, and vibrant traditions come alive through stories gathered from Gaelic-speaking peasants…
Level C1AdventureCedric, the ForesterAs war calls the lord of Mountjoy to battle, his family must defend their castle against the looming threat of the Old Wolf of Carleton.
Level C1HistoricalCedar Creek: From the Shanty to the Settlement. A Tale of Canadian LifeA young Irishman, hopeful yet disillusioned, arrives in London chasing a promised Civil Service appointment amid the city's bustling streets and harsh realities.
Level A2PoetryCecily Parsley's Nursery RhymesStep into a whimsical world where mischievous animals and charming characters come alive through playful nursery rhymes and enchanting illustrations, perfect for young readers and…
Level C1HistoricalCaxton's Book of CurtesyeDiscover the medieval guide to proper behavior and manners as a father advises his son on courtly conduct, weaving poetry and wisdom from ancient manuscripts to shape noble charact…
Level C1PoetryCaw! Caw! Or, The Chronicle of Crows, A Tale of the Spring-timeAs spring breathes life into the countryside, a community of crows builds nests, cares for their young, and faces the challenges of survival against farmers determined to protect t…
Level B2AdventureCattle-Ranch to College: The True Tales of a Boy's Adventures in the Far WestA cattleman races to warn a frontier town of an impending Indian attack, sparking tense preparations in the wild and lawless West.
Level B2HistoricalCatharine's perilAs Napoleon's army sets Moscow ablaze during its 1812 invasion of Russia, young Catharine Somoff becomes lost and alone amid the chaos.
Level B2HistoricalCathalina at GreycliffIn a summer home filled with family ties and tender moments, Cathalina Van Buskirk navigates the joys and trials of youth, longing for change amid the familiar rhythms of school, m…
Level B2Children'sCatcher CraigSeventeen-year-old Sam Craig, captain of his high school baseball team, faces a tough choice between saving money or buying a new catcher's mitt, setting the stage for a summer of…
Level B2Children'sCat and Dog; Or, Memoirs of Puss and the CaptainA well-bred setter reflects on a life filled with kindness, loyalty, and discerning friendships in an old manor.
Level B2Children'sCastle Blair: A Story of Youthful DaysAt Castle Blair in rainy Ireland, three spirited children anxiously await the arrival of their French cousin Adrienne, a graceful stranger destined to bring new warmth and friendsh…
Level B2HistoricalCast Upon the BreakersA wealthy young ward discovers his guardian has squandered his inheritance, leaving him penniless and forced to face a harsh reality.
Level B2AdventureCast Away in the Cold: An Old Man's Story of a Young Man's Adventures, as Related by Captain John Hardy, MarinerAn ancient mariner known as Captain Hardy returns to a small village, sparking curiosity and adventure among three eager children.
Level B2Children'sCarry's Rose; or, the Magic of Kindness. A Tale for the YoungA warm-hearted girl eagerly welcomes her wayward brother home, hoping kindness can soften his temper during rainy days filled with simple pleasures like soap bubbles and shared sto…
Level B2AdventureCarry On! A Story of the Fight for BagdadIn the ancient, desolate plains of Mesopotamia, two men land an aeroplane on a forgotten tell, awakening echoes of a long-lost civilization as they navigate a modern battle for Bag…
Level B2Children'sCarlo: or Kindness RewardedWhen kind-hearted Ida saves a little dog from cruel boys, she never imagines that her compassion will be repaid in a life-saving moment years later.
Level B2AdventureCarl the TrailerIn the tense frontier near Sitting Bull’s agency, Lieutenant Parker is tasked with leading a small cavalry group into dangerous mountains to hunt fresh meat amid rising Native Amer…
Level B1Children'sCareless Kate: A Story for Little FolksA spirited young girl known as Careless Kate struggles to overcome her thoughtless habits after accidentally destroying her mother’s prized flower.
Level B2AdventureCaptured by the ArabsA daring expedition ventures into the vast Sahara Desert, where two young explorers face mysterious followers and whispers of hidden treasure guarded by fierce Tuareg tribes.
Level C1AdventureCaptured by Apes; or, How Philip Garland Became King of ApelandA young animal dealer inherits a monkey emporium and devotes himself to training apes with astonishing skills, from somersaults to military drills.
Level B2Children'sCaptain of the CrewAt Hillton Academy, a lively group of boys return from Christmas break, ready to embrace the challenges and camaraderie of school life where athletics and honesty shape their chara…
Level B2AdventureCaptain Ted: A Boy's Adventures Among Hiding Slackers in the Great Georgia SwampTwo boys setting out to find the perfect Christmas tree in snowy Georgia woods tumble into an abandoned gold-mining pit, sparking a tense adventure as they struggle to escape and p…
Level C1AdventureCaptain Sam: The Boy Scouts of 1814A determined young captain leads a band of boy soldiers on a daring march in 1814, enforcing discipline amidst threats of mutiny and the harsh wilderness.