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 B2HistoricalAmong the Farmyard PeopleDiscover the lively world of farmyard animals as they share their joys, friendships, and simple adventures, revealing how much they think, feel, and help each other in their daily…
Level C1AdventureAmong the Esquimaux; or, Adventures under the Arctic CircleTwo young men embark on a daring voyage aboard the "Nautilus" to York Factory, a remote Hudson Bay trading post surrounded by icy wilderness and fur-bearing animals.
Level C1AdventureAmong the BrigandsTrapped in a land of mystery and danger, young David and his companions face ruthless brigands, treacherous guides, and haunting legends as they journey through sunlit Italy's anci…
Level B2AdventureAmong Malay Pirates : a Tale of Adventure and PerilA midshipman’s dull patrol along a perilous river turns into a desperate rescue when Malay pirates collide their canoes, plunging a child into the turbulent waters.
Level B2AdventureAmerican boys afloatFour American boys, united by friendship and adventure, take command of a steam-yacht and its tender to explore the Mediterranean’s exotic ports.
Level B2FantasyAmerican Fairy TalesWhen young Martha unlocks her mysterious uncle’s chest, three curious men in colorful velvet emerge, sparking an adventure filled with magic, mystery, and unexpected visitors from…
Level B2HistoricalAmerica FirstA young boy, torn between his sheltered upbringing and the call to serve his country, faces the harsh realities of patriotism during a time of war.
Level B2Children'sAmarilly of Clothes-line AlleyA young scrubber’s chance encounter with the theater ignites her dreams of a brighter future beyond Clothes-line Alley.
Level B2Children'sAmanda: A Daughter of the MennonitesOn a hot summer day in Lancaster County, a spirited red-haired girl and her mischievous brother splash in a cool creek, navigating childhood adventures, family quirks, and the chal…
Level C1Children'sAmabel ChanniceIn a somber, convent-like estate, Lady Channice navigates loneliness and memories while awaiting her son’s return, surrounded by faded portraits and pale roses that hint at a quiet…
Level C1AdventureAlong the Mohawk Trail; Or, Boy Scouts on Lake ChamplainA determined Boy Scout races against time to catch his troop’s train, embodying the spirit of adventure and the challenge of balancing duty and good deeds along the Mohawk Trail.
Level C1AdventureAlone on an IslandStranded aboard the troubled letter-of-marque Wolf, young midshipman Humphry Gurton confronts mutiny, harsh officers, and the perils of the sea as he embarks on a perilous adventur…
Level B2Children'sAlone in LondonIn the sweltering heat of London's narrow alleys, an old news agent’s quiet life is quietly observed, revealing the hidden struggles and small acts of kindness in the city's shadow…
Level C1AdventureAll the World Over: Interesting Stories of Travel, Thrilling Adventure and Home LifeJourney through vibrant Spanish cities alive with colorful characters—from muscular beggars with secret codes to dancers and musicians who bring the streets to life.
Level B2Children'sAll the Way to Fairyland: Fairy StoriesIn the whimsical land of Nonamia, an absent-minded magician meets a curious Princess searching for her own castle in the air, sparking a charming tale of imagination, rooms for eve…
Level B2Children'sAll that happened in a weekAn eight-year-old girl arrives at her aunt’s unfamiliar house, where new sights, a mischievous cat, and unexpected troubles quickly turn her summer visit into an eventful adventure…
Level B2AdventureAll Taut; or, Rigging the boatA reformatory school transforms troubled boys through naval discipline as they learn to rig and sail the schooner Lily, navigating challenges on a creek and lake.
Level C2PoetryAll Round the YearExperience the cycle of nature and human emotion through vivid, lyrical poems that celebrate the resilience of life, the promise of spring, and the tender moments woven throughout…
Level B2AdventureAll Adrift; Or, The Goldwing ClubA resourceful boy with a knack for boat handling seeks to support his family while navigating the challenges of life on Lake Champlain.
Level A2Children'sAll About the Three Little PigsThree little pigs set out to build their own homes and face a hungry wolf eager to blow their houses down.
Level A2Children'sAll About the Little Small Red HenA clever Little Small Red Hen outwits a cunning Wicked Old Fox who tries to catch her in a sly trap.
Level C1AdventureAll Aboard; or, Life on the Lake: A Sequel to "The Boat Club"At Wood Lake, a new season of adventure unfolds as Charles Hardy joins a spirited boat club where friendship, courage, and moral lessons steer the boys through exciting races, secr…
Level B2AdventureAll Aboard: A Story for GirlsTwo spirited sisters, Faith and Hope, prepare to leave the comfort of home and trusted guardian Debby as they embark on an adventurous voyage with their seafaring father.
Level B2AdventureAlive in the jungleUnder the oppressive heat of a Bengal night, a family battles the wild jungle’s dangers and their own fears as a fierce tiger roams nearby and jackals howl in the darkness, threate…
Level B2AdventureAlila, Our Little Philippine CousinJourney to the Philippine Islands through the eyes of Alila, a curious and lively boy whose family protects him from spirits with ancient customs.
Level C1HistoricalAlida; or, Miscellaneous Sketches of Incidents During the Late American War.: Founded on FactAmid the turmoil of the late American War, personal tragedies and enduring friendships unfold as Alida navigates loss, education, and unexpected encounters that intertwine with the…
Level B2FantasyAlice's Adventures Under Ground: Being a facsimile of the original Ms. book afterwards developed into "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland"A curious girl named Alice follows a talking white rabbit down a mysterious rabbit hole, tumbling into a surreal underground world filled with strange passages, locked doors, and m…
Level A2FantasyAlice in Wonderland, Retold in Words of One SyllableA curious girl follows a talking white rabbit down a deep hole, tumbling into a strange world where doors are locked and magic potions change her size.
Level A2Children'sAlice and BeatriceTwo young sisters spend joyful days with their loving grandmamma by the sea, exploring gardens, collecting shells, and learning gentle lessons about nature and kindness amidst seas…
Level B2Children'sAlias Santa ClausOn Christmas Day, two masked boys sneak into a lavishly decorated home filled with expensive toys meant for one lonely millionaire child.
Level B2AdventureAli Baba, or the Forty ThievesIn ancient Persia, humble woodcutter Ali Baba discovers a secret cave filled with treasure guarded by forty thieves and protected by the magical phrase "Open, Sesame.
Level C1HistoricalAlfgar the Dane or the Second Chronicle of Aescendune: A Tale of the Days of Edmund IronsideAmid the brutal clash between English and Danish invaders, a dark age unfolds where loyalty is tested, treachery lurks, and the seeds of a united Christian nation are sown.
Level B2Children'sAldyth's inheritanceIn the quiet town of Woodham, the Bland sisters lead contrasting lives—dreamy Hilda prefers books and daydreams, while lively Kitty thrives on adventure.
Level C1PoetryAladdin or The Wonderful LampStep into a world of colorful wonder and magic where a mysterious lamp holds secrets beyond imagination, enchanting children with tales as vivid as the finest illustrated alphabets…
Level B2AdventureAladdin and the Magic LampA careless young boy is lured by a mysterious magician to a hidden cave, where a magical lamp and unimaginable treasures await.
Level C1AdventureAladdin O'BrienA daring boy with a knack for mischief takes a cautious girl on a forbidden river adventure, where innocence and rebellion collide amid looming consequences and a world both enchan…
Level B2MysteryAirship Andy; Or, The Luck of a Brave BoyA homeless boy with a knack for mechanics takes a job in a struggling garage, where he battles unfair bosses and shady dealings.
Level B2AdventureAir Service boys flying for FranceTwo friends fueled by passion and patriotism train as aviators during World War I, aiming to become heroes in the skies.
Level B2MysteryAir Service Boys over the Atlantic; Or, The Longest Flight on RecordTwo young American aviators, skilled and daring, take to the skies during the final year of World War I, facing deadly missions, enemy pilots, and harrowing battles as they strive…
Level B2AdventureAir Service Boys in the Big Battle; Or, Silencing the Big GunsTwo young aviators, freshly honored for daring feats over enemy lines, await new orders near Paris, eager to return to the skies.
Level B2AdventureAir Service Boys Over the Rhine; Or, Fighting Above the CloudsAmid the perilous skies over wartime France, young aviators Tom and Jack await the return of their squadron after a daring night raid on German lines, facing the chilling reality o…
Level B2AdventureAir Service Boys Over the Enemy's Lines; Or, The German Spy's SecretTwo young American aviators stationed in war-torn France confront the shadowy threat of a cunning German spy lurking near their aviation camp, as they navigate the dangers and unce…
Level B2AdventureAir Service Boys Flying for Victory; Or, Bombing the Last German StrongholdTwo daring young American pilots take to the skies over the Argonne Forest in 1918, facing relentless German forces and deadly battles to turn the tide in the final push of World W…
Level B2AdventureAir MonsterIn a tense, secret mission, Lieutenant Serge Larko is tasked with piloting the cutting-edge XO5 on a non-stop flight to the United States to sabotage the powerful new American airs…
Level B2AdventureAhead of the ArmyAs distant cannon fire signals the outbreak of war along the Rio Grande, a young lieutenant and his fellow officers brace for the challenges ahead in a conflict that will shape the…
Level B2Children'sAfter Long Years and Other StoriesWhen a broken carriage strands a duchess and her children, a chance encounter with a determined stable-boy sets Alfred on a mission to help him fulfill his dream of becoming a whee…
Level B2AdventureAfloat; or, Adventures on Watery TrailsA spirited Boy Scout troop, led by the resourceful Elmer, plans a thrilling late-summer adventure to reclaim their beloved outdoor freedom after a rainy, malaria-stricken season.
Level B2AdventureAfloat on the FloodAs relentless rains swell the Evergreen River, the small town of Carson braces for a devastating flood, forcing a group of adventurous boys to navigate rising waters, looming disas…