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 A2PoetryThe Lu Lu AlphabetDiscover a whimsical alphabet where each letter brings to life charming scenes, from graceful Alice and lively dances to colorful kites and grand trumpets, weaving a playful celebr…
Level C1RomanceThe Love Affairs of PixieA lively young woman confronts her plain looks and dreams of a daring transformation—a nose reshaped in Paris—sparking playful fantasies and heartfelt conversations that explore ch…
Level B2Children'sThe Louisa Alcott Reader: a Supplementary Reader for the Fourth Year of SchoolA young girl, tired of the usual Christmas celebrations, yearns for something new and meaningful.
Level C1AdventureThe Lost Treasure of Trevlyn: A Story of the Days of the Gunpowder PlotAmidst fierce clashes of faith and family loyalty, a young man defies his father's strict Catholic beliefs in a turbulent England on the brink of the Gunpowder Plot.
Level B2RomanceThe Lost TrailA determined young frontiersman follows a frantic horse’s wild trail through the Kentucky wilderness, sensing danger from lurking Native American foes.
Level B2FantasyThe Lost Princess of OzWhen Princess Ozma mysteriously vanishes from her palace, her closest friends Dorothy, Betsy, and Trot set out on a magical journey through Oz to uncover the truth behind the sudde…
Level B2AdventureThe Lost PrinceA boy with a mysterious past and a noble father finds himself uprooted from Russia to live in London's bleakest neighborhood, where danger and secrecy shadow every move.
Level C1AdventureThe Lost Mountain: A Tale of SonoraA caravan of miners and their families trek through a parched Sonoran plain, desperate for water and hope, guided by Pedro Vicente, a seasoned gold-seeker, toward the legendary Los…
Level B2MysteryThe Lost Mine of the Amazon: A Hal Keen Mystery StoryAs Hal Keen embarks on his first journey through the Amazon, a mysterious encounter with a suspicious passenger hints at hidden dangers and secrets aboard the scow.
Level B2AdventureThe Lost Middy: Being the Secret of the Smugglers' GapA determined young lad battles a stubborn money-box and his fiery temper while navigating the challenges of growing up under the watchful eye of a gruff uncle, setting the stage fo…
Level B1Children'sThe Lost KittyWhen Fred finds a lost Maltese kitty and cares for her, he faces the challenge of returning her through muddy roads—only to be met with cold thanks.
Level B2AdventureThe Lost HeirIn the tense aftermath of a tiger attack in the Indian jungle, a mysterious English civilian named Mr.
Level B2AdventureThe Lost Gold of the Montezumas: A Story of the AlamoIn a shadowy cave beneath the gods of the Montezumas, a mysterious figure named Tetzcatl plots to stir up fierce Native tribes and lure Americans into a deadly trap amid the turbul…
Level B2Children'sThe Lost Giant, and Other American Indian Tales RetoldIn a time when animals roamed free and spirits whispered through the winds, a lonely boy named Wasewahto finds an unexpected protector in a towering giant.
Level B2AdventureThe Lost Explorers: A Story of the Trackless DesertTwo young men, weary of mundane city life, resolve to escape to the wild Australian goldfields where danger and mystery await.
Level B2Children'sThe Lost DryadA lost dryad, separated from her shattered oak tree, wanders into a village where she faces fear and misunderstanding.
Level C1FantasyThe Lost CityAmidst a brewing tempest, a quirky trio of adventurers confronts strange weather phenomena hinting at deeper mysteries.
Level C1AdventureThe Lost ChildA wild, fearless boy living by a remote river becomes captivated by the mysterious forest across the water, despite warnings of danger and the lurking Bunyip beneath the stones.
Level B1HistoricalThe Lost ArmyTwo boys from Iowa, barely sixteen, answer the call to enlist as the Civil War erupts, joining the Northern fight to preserve the Union.
Level B2AdventureThe Loss of the Royal GeorgeA young boy is thrust into life aboard the mighty Royal George during the tumultuous Seven Years’ War, facing the chaos of naval battles and the harsh realities of the sea as Engla…
Level B2AdventureThe Lords of the Wild: A Story of the Old New York BorderAmid the vibrant wilderness of the Old New York border, a young man named Robert Lennox seeks refuge and strength while navigating the dangers of the frontier.
Level C1AdventureThe Lord of Dynevor: A Tale of the Times of Edward the FirstIn the shadow of Dynevor Castle, four brothers await news from distant lands as their homeland teeters on the brink of war under English rule.
Level C1AdventureThe Lonely Island: The Refuge of the MutineersBeneath a tranquil Pacific sunset, simmering tensions aboard a British ship threaten to ignite mutiny as sailors chafe under Captain Bligh’s harsh rule, setting the stage for a des…
Level C1AdventureThe Lone RancheAmid the harsh, war-scarred plains near Chihuahua, a mysterious Kentuckian observes a vivid religious procession, hinting at untold adventures in a land haunted by conflict between…
Level C1AdventureThe Log of a PrivateersmanAmidst the perilous seas of wartime, a daring crew sets sail on a newly outfitted privateer, chasing fortune and adventure after their merchant ship’s audacious capture and recaptu…
Level B2HistoricalThe Log School-House on the ColumbiaAmid the towering peaks and vast wilderness of the Oregon Territory, a young German girl with dreams of poetry and music navigates the rugged life of pioneer settlers, caught betwe…
Level C1AdventureThe Log House by the Lake: A Tale of CanadaAfter losing their fortune, the Ashton family resolves to start anew in Canada, embracing hard work and adventure as they build a life together in the wilderness.
Level C1AdventureThe Lively Poll: A Tale of the North SeaAmid the bustling North Sea fishing fleet, Admiral Manx Bradley commands nearly two hundred vessels in a daring, coordinated night haul, where strength, skill, and unity face the u…
Level B2HistoricalThe Littlest RebelIn the shadow of the Civil War, a spirited seven-year-old girl named Virgie brings innocence and imagination to a world scarred by conflict, weaving childhood play with the harsh r…
Level B2AdventureThe Little Washingtons' TravelsJoin the lively Washington family and their cousins as they embark on a bustling train journey to New York City, filled with childhood mischief, historical curiosity, and the excit…
Level B2HistoricalThe Little Washington's RelativesWhen city cousins arrive, George and Martha eagerly plan adventures to share their hometown’s history, including battles, homesteads, and playful reenactments, promising a lively a…
Level C1Children'sThe Little ViolinistTwo young twins arrive unexpectedly, seeking care, school, and love, while their guardian balances nurturing with playful adventure.
Level B2Children'sThe Little Spanish DancerIn sunlit Seville, young Pilar dances with magical castanets, carrying a legacy of dancers and a heavy burden—the need to save her ailing grandfather.
Level B2AdventureThe Little Skipper: A Son of a SailorYoung Bob, known as the Skipper, and his sister Dot embark on a spring adventure by their lakeside home, navigating the challenges of launching Bob’s intricate model ship, the "Fla…
Level B2Children'sThe Little School-MothersAt Abbeyfield School, the third form girls are entrusted with welcoming Robina Starling, a shy newcomer sent from home due to her mother's illness.
Level C1AdventureThe Little SavageStranded alone on a rocky island after a shipwreck, a boy grows up under the harsh rule of his father's murderer.
Level A2Children'sThe Little Red Hen: An Old English Folk TaleIn a bustling barnyard, a diligent Little Red Hen discovers a wheat seed and sets out to plant, harvest, and bake bread—while the lazy pig, cat, and rat refuse to help.
Level C1Children'sThe Little Quaker; or, the Triumph of Virtue. A Tale for the Instruction of YouthTwo wayward brothers, scornful of their father's lessons, clash with Josiah, a kind-hearted Quaker boy whose gentle virtues starkly contrast their rebellious ways.
Level B2Children'sThe Little Princess of Tower HillMaggie Ascot, the pampered "Little Princess of Tower Hill," lives a life of luxury and admiration, but as education and discipline enter her world, her spirited nature begins to su…
Level B2FantasyThe Little Princess in the WoodA lively princess wakes to a magical summer day filled with playful Dew Children, woodland creatures, and enchanting lessons under the trees.
PoetryThe Little People of the SnowDiscover a whimsical world where delicate snow spirits dance and play, inviting you to explore the magic and mystery hidden within winter's quiet beauty.
Level B2HistoricalThe Little Old PortraitAmid the turmoil of the French Revolution, a humble farmhouse in Touraine becomes a beacon of hope and courage, where children prepare to celebrate their mother’s birthday amidst m…
Level B1Children'sThe Little Nightcap LettersAunt Fanny welcomes a sweet little girl named Kitty, whose joyful hugs and loving words bring warmth and laughter, as they share stories and kindness with a lively group of childre…
PoetryThe Little Mother GooseDelight in a charming collection of Mother Goose rhymes brought to life with vivid illustrations, inviting children into a timeless world of playful verses and imaginative games.
Level B1FantasyThe Little Match ManIn rainy Takoshima, a lonely man crafts a tiny matchstick figure that suddenly springs to life, revealing himself as a mystical Haji—a forest spirit trapped in a match, longing for…
Level C1HistoricalThe Little Maid of IsraelIn ancient Israel, a crippled boy anxiously awaits news of his sister Leah, who lingers in Samaria after hearing rumors of the prophet Elisha’s miraculous power to raise the dead.
Level B2Children'sThe Little Lame Prince: Rewritten for Young Readers by Margaret WatersBorn into royalty but struck by a mysterious accident at his christening, the little prince faces challenges with the help of an unexpected godmother whose love and guidance may sh…
Level B2Children'sThe Little Lame PrinceBorn a beautiful prince with twenty-four godparents, a royal heir’s life begins with joyous celebrations—until a hidden accident changes everything, challenging his future in the k…