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 B2PoetryThe Fox and the Geese; and The Wonderful History of Henny-PennyThree clever geese face the cunning Fox Reynard, who uses trickery and fire to prey on them.
Level B2FantasyThe Fox That Wanted Nine Golden TailsA cunning Japanese fox dreams of gaining nine golden tails and ultimate power, but must survive a thousand years of danger and dog chases.
Level B1RomanceThe Fox Jumps Over the Parson's GateA lively hunt unfolds with a mischievous fox leaping over the parson’s gate, while the heart of the story beats for Nancy, weaving humor and romance through spirited songs and char…
Level B2HistoricalThe Foundling of the WreckAmidst the treacherous storms near the fledgling city of St.
Level C1RomanceThe Fortunes of the FarrellsIn a world of glittering balls and dazzling jewels, penniless Mollie Farrell navigates the clash between high society's luxury and the harsh demands of everyday life.
Level B2HistoricalThe Fortunes of Philippa: A School StorySent away from her tropical paradise to England for a proper education, Philippa faces the challenge of adapting to a new world, new customs, and the companions she’s never known—a…
Level C1AdventureThe Fortunes and Misfortunes of the Famous Moll FlandersBorn in Newgate prison, Moll Flanders recounts a life filled with crime, multiple marriages, and exile to Virginia, revealing a thrilling journey from vice to repentance that warns…
Level B2AdventureThe Forest of Swords: A Story of Paris and the MarneAmid the thunder of advancing German guns, an American and a Frenchman face the looming fall of Paris, their spirits ignited by hope and defiance as history’s shadows and the ghost…
Level B1MysteryThe Forest of MysteryAfter rescuing a mysterious man from a dramatic car crash, two friends are drawn into an unexpected invitation that promises secrets lurking in San Francisco’s shadowy corners.
Level B2AdventureThe Forest Runners: A Story of the Great War Trail in Early KentuckyTwo boys brave the vast, untamed Kentucky wilderness, carrying a precious powder supply to defend their settlements from Indian attacks.
Level B2AdventureThe Forest Pilot: A Story for Boy ScoutsCaught in a sudden, fierce storm, a seasoned hunter and a city boy set sail on a small schooner yacht, facing the wild forces of nature in the rugged northern wilderness.
Level B2FantasyThe Forest Beyond the Woodlands: A Fairy TaleA young woodcutter named David, drawn to the mysteries of the Dark Forest, encounters a mysterious old woman who speaks of hidden paths and a rare Blue Bird that guides the way—set…
Level B2Children'sThe Forbidden Room; Or, "Mine Answer was My Deed"At Gaybrook Farm, a lively group of children and their caretakers arrive amid festive preparations, stirring excitement and anxiety—especially for young Gaston, a shy French boy wh…
Level B2AdventureThe Flying Boat: A Story of Adventure and MisadventureIn a school where rivalry and tradition rule, a mysterious visitor from afar arrives, stirring curiosity and challenging social boundaries.
Level B2FantasyThe Flower PrincessIn a garden of enchanting beauty, Princess Fleurette challenges suitors to find the hidden flower of her heart, delighting in her secret morning ritual of tending blooms herself.
Level C1Children'sThe Flower Basket: A Fairy TaleIn a decaying castle, three children—Adrian, Amaranthé, and their gentle cousin Claribel—navigate a secluded life shaped by faded fortunes, tender care, and childhood dreams, disco…
Level C1AdventureThe Floating Light of the Goodwin SandsAmid the treacherous Goodwin Sands, floating lighthouses and their hardy crews battle fierce storms and unseen dangers to protect the coast.
Level B2AdventureThe Flight of the Silver Ship: Around the World Aboard a Giant DirgibleDavid faces a tough choice between his dreams and family duty, sacrificing college plans to support his mother and sisters.
Level A2AdventureThe Flight of Pony Baker: A Boy's Town StoryA spirited boy known as Pony Baker struggles against his mother's overprotective care and the expectations that set him apart from other boys in his town.
Level B2AdventureThe Flamp, The Ameliorator, and The Schoolboy's ApprenticeTwo siblings journey to the mysterious city of Ule, where the sun’s daily path is a cherished myth and a fearsome monster called the Flamp terrorizes the townsfolk every Christmas…
Level B2AdventureThe Flamingo FeatherYoung Réné de Veaux, orphaned and determined, joins his uncle’s daring expedition to the New World, embarking on a perilous voyage filled with mystery and adventure as they seek a…
Level B2Children'sThe Flag-RaisingWhen Rebecca arrives from a rough upbringing to live with the Sawyer sisters, their orderly New England home faces a test of patience, hope, and transformation amid the upheaval of…
Level C1AdventureThe Flag of Distress: A Story of the South SeaIn the vast Pacific, an English frigate pursues a mysterious Chilean barque flying a reversed flag of distress—an eerie signal contradicted by the vessel’s swift escape and strange…
Level B2Children'sThe FlagIn a snowy village divided between the privileged Hilltops and the spirited Riverbeds, a boy named Pen navigates family tensions and a playful yet fierce rivalry that escalates int…
Level B2Children'sThe Five GiantsMeet five mighty giants with incredible powers—Flare, Roar, Blow, Bounce, and Rush—each shaping nature and history in surprising ways, but beware their fierce tempers that can unle…
Level B2Children'sThe Fisher-Boy UrashimaA kind fisherman rescues a mystical tortoise and is whisked away to the enchanting Dragon Palace beneath the waves, where time flows differently and magic rules.
Level C1AdventureThe First Mate: The Story of a Strange CruiseA young man’s search for a ship leads him to the stunning yacht Stella Maris, owned by a mysterious, elegantly dressed woman.
Level A2Children'sThe First Little Pet Book with Ten Short Stories in Words of Three and Four LettersJoin Ned, Sam, and their playful pets in simple, charming tales told entirely in short words, capturing childhood adventures and lessons with warmth and humor.
Level B2AdventureThe First Capture; or, Hauling Down the Flag of EnglandIn a small Maine fishing village, news of the Battle of Lexington sparks a fierce uprising as patriots prepare to confront the British army’s attempt to crush the rebellion and sei…
Level C1AdventureThe Fire-Gods: A Tale of the CongoIn an era when vast parts of Africa remain unexplored, a renowned explorer prepares to venture into the mysterious Congo, joined by his ambitious nephew on a daring quest to uncove…
Level B2HistoricalThe Fighting Starkleys; or, The Test of CourageAmid the rugged life of Beaver Dam, the Starkley family’s resilience and courage are forged through hard work, close friendships, and the call to adventure, as young Dick and his s…
Level B2HistoricalThe Fighting ScrubA sixteen-year-old boy faces the painful farewell to his father as he arrives at a new school, where rivalry and harsh judgments await him.
Level C1HistoricalThe Fifth Form at Saint Dominic's: A School StoryAt Saint Dominic’s, the vibrant life of a great public school unfolds through the trials and triumphs of its spirited boys.
Level B2AdventureThe Fiery Totem: A Tale of Adventure in the Canadian North-WestTwo young friends embark on a daring hunting expedition along the wild, swift currents of the Athabasca River, facing treacherous rapids and towering cliffs in the untamed Canadian…
Level B2FantasyThe FeatherA fearless princess defies warnings of fiery serpents and deadly precipices in a hidden, peaceful kingdom, only to be swept away by a mysterious eagle.
Level C1Children'sThe Farmer's Boy: One of R. Caldecott's picture booksFollow the lively adventures and charming scenes of a young farmer's boy brought to life through irresistibly humorous and colorful illustrations that delight readers of all ages.
Level B2AdventureThe Family on WheelsA troop of boys preparing to welcome soldiers instead encounter a mysterious, towering creature beside a shabby van—a gentle giant that captivates their imagination and curiosity.
Level B2Children'sThe Faithless ParrotIn a charming household, faithful Fido the dog adores Tittums the cat, but when the dashing Mr.
Level B2FantasyThe Fairy and the WitchA powerful Black Witch commands the night on Halloween, summoning dark creatures to aid her sinister plans—but eerie silence greets her calls, signaling a shift in the balance betw…
Level C1Children'sThe Fairy Tales of Charles PerraultStep into a world where timeless tales come alive, spun by a man of wit and imagination who defied convention and crafted stories that have enchanted generations.
Level B2FantasyThe Fairy School of Castle FrankIn a grand Canadian woodland, young Robin’s kindness to animals and vivid imagination lead him to a mysterious ravine where fairies might dwell—offering a magical journey into a se…
Level C1Children'sThe Fairy RingStep into a magical garden where golden apples grow—each a timeless fairy tale filled with wise animals, brave heroes, and enchanting adventures that reveal the power of kindness,…
Level C1Children'sThe Fairy NightcapsIn a magical hollow beneath the Highlands, fairies gather under moonlight to weave sweet dreams and tender care for a mortal's fading life.
Level C1FantasyThe Fairy LatchkeyPhilomène Isolde lives a quiet, ordinary life in a modest London home, longing for the magic and adventure found in her beloved storybooks.
Level C1Children'sThe Fairy Godmothers and Other TalesIn a magical land where fairies gather to bestow gifts at christenings, they debate which blessings bring true happiness—beauty, envy, or something more.
Level B2PoetryThe Fairy Godmother-in-lawWhen Cinderella marries the prince, her fairy godmother-in-law arrives uninvited, turning royal life upside down with whimsical spells and mischievous jokes that challenge the pala…
Level C1Children'sThe Fairy Book: The Best Popular Stories Selected and Rendered AnewStep into a world where seven fairies bestow wondrous gifts on a princess, but a spiteful curse threatens her fate.
Level B1Children'sThe FairchildsA determined young man faces the harsh reality of giving up his college dreams to support his family, learning that sometimes doing what you can is the bravest choice of all.