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 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 B1AdventureBarty Crusoe and His Man SaturdayWhen Barty discovers an old copy of Robinson Crusoe, his imagination sparks a thrilling adventure with his loyal companion, the Good Wolf.
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 C1FantasyBaron Trump's Marvellous Underground JourneyA curious young baron and his loyal dog set off on a fantastical journey inspired by a mysterious ancient manuscript that claims a hidden world exists beneath the earth’s surface,…
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 C1HistoricalBarbara LaddAs dawn breaks over the misty hills, a spirited girl named Barbara slips away from her old home, carrying a mysterious bundle and a basket filled with warm, living creatures.
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 C1AdventureBannertail: The Story of a GraysquirrelAn orphaned gray squirrel raised by a farm cat must navigate the challenges of the wild alone after his home burns down, relying on instinct and inherited wisdom to survive and thr…
Level C1PoetryBallads, Founded on Anecdotes Relating to AnimalsLoyal to a fault, Fido the dog embodies true friendship and bravery, risking all to protect his beloved master from hidden dangers.
Level A2AdventureBallad of the Lost HareA mischievous hare flees his scolding family, racing through fields and forests to escape capture and find freedom.
Level C1Children'sBack at School with the Tucker TwinsA year after starting boarding school, a girl reunites with her friends at the train station, where lively adventures and heartfelt moments await the spirited Tucker twins and thei…
Level B1Children'sBaby Pitcher's Trials: Little Pitcher StoriesTrapped indoors by endless rain, little Flora dreams of adventure beyond the gloomy skies.
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.
Children'sBabes of the Empire: An alphabet for young EnglandDiscover the alphabet through charming illustrations and stories that celebrate the spirit and heritage of young England, inspiring children to learn with delight and pride.
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 B1Children'sAway to school: 'Ólta'góóA Navajo boy describes his experiences attending a distant boarding school, navigating new routines, language, and culture while learning English and adapting to a different world…
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 C1Children'sAustralian fairy talesA strong miner named Samson awakens in a mysterious gold mine to meet Grapple, a giant stranger who leads him through secret tunnels to the enchanting land of Golden Cloud.
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…
Level C1Children'sAunt Kitty's TalesJoin Aunt Kitty and her young friends as they navigate childhood’s joys and challenges, learning kindness, forgiveness, and gratitude through heartfelt stories and gentle lessons i…
PoetryAunt Kitty's StoriesDive into a whimsical collection of nursery rhymes and playful verses that bring to life charming animals, mischievous children, and timeless tales, perfect for sparking imaginatio…
Level C1Children'sAunt Judy's TalesGather around the fire as Aunt Judy weaves charming tales filled with humor, wisdom, and gentle lessons, captivating a lively group of children on a cold, rainy day when boredom an…
Level B2Children'sAunt Judith: The Story of a Loving LifeAt a strict boarding school, a spirited girl named Winnifred stirs up a clash of pride and friendship when a mysterious new pupil arrives, challenging social ranks and rivalries in…
Level B2Children'sAunt Jo's scrap-bag, Volume 6In the heart of New Hampshire hills, the Bassett family prepares a bustling, old-fashioned Thanksgiving feast, rich with warmth and tradition.
Level B2Children'sAunt Jo's scrap-bag, Volume 5A determined boy struggles to raise money for his sick sister’s recovery, dreaming of sailing away as a cabin boy to earn their salvation.
Level B2Children'sAunt Jo's scrap-bag, Volume 4Discover inspiring stories of young women breaking barriers and pursuing their passions—from studying medicine to creating art—each carving a path of independence, courage, and pur…
Level B2Children'sAunt Jo's scrap-bag, Volume 3A lively young boy named Cupid eagerly welcomes his spirited cousin Chow-chow, whose fiery temper and playful defiance promise charming family adventures filled with love, mischief…
Level C1Children'sAunt Jo's scrap bag, Volume 2Three determined sisters embark on a daring European voyage seeking health and adventure, facing seasickness, unexpected setbacks, and the challenge of traveling as lone women in t…
Level B2Children'sAunt Jo's scrap bag, Volume 1Dive into a charming collection of tales from Aunt Jo’s Scrap-Bag, where mischievous boys, playful adventures, and heartfelt friendships come to life through the eyes of a spirited…
Level B2Children'sAunt Jane's Nieces out WestTwo young nieces stumble into a chaotic film shoot where a fake building collapse turns their morning stroll into a thrilling adventure—and an accidental debut on the silver screen…
Level B2MysteryAunt Jane's Nieces on the RanchThree spirited nieces leave the cozy confines of New York for a winter adventure on a California fruit ranch, where family bonds and unexpected mysteries await amid the rugged land…
Level B2MysteryAunt Jane's Nieces on VacationThree spirited nieces and their wealthy uncle stir up a quiet town when they arrive at a remote farm, bringing new energy—and secrets—to the community.
Level B2AdventureAunt Jane's Nieces in the Red CrossThree courageous American girls leave their comfortable lives behind to volunteer as nurses in the harrowing battlefields of World War I, confronting the brutal realities of war wh…
Level B2MysteryAunt Jane's Nieces in SocietyThree wealthy nieces enter New York's exclusive social scene, where money can't buy acceptance and influence is key.