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 B2AdventureThe Courier of the OzarksAmid the brutal guerrilla warfare of 1862 Missouri, a young courier and his loyal dog navigate dangerous rebel forces plotting to ignite a fierce uprising.
Level B2FantasyThe Counterpane FairyWhen lonely and sick, Teddy’s world brightens as the mysterious Counterpane Fairy appears, inviting him to explore magical stories hidden within the colorful squares of his quilt.
Level C1PoetryThe Council of DogsIn a whimsical gathering, dogs of various breeds debate and jockey for position, revealing their distinct personalities and quirks through lively verse and charming illustrations.
Level B2AdventureThe Cornet of Horse: A Tale of Marlborough's WarsIn the shadow of Marlborough’s wars, a young nobleman hones his fencing skills and courtly manners, preparing for a life where courage and grace will be tested on both battlefield…
Level B2AdventureThe Coral Island: A Tale of the Pacific OceanThree boys shipwrecked on a remote Pacific island must rely on courage and friendship to survive thrilling adventures in a tropical paradise shaped by nature’s tiny architects—the…
Level B2Children'sThe Copy-Cat, and Other StoriesIn a quaint school, plain little Amelia idolizes the dazzling Lily Jennings, striving to mimic her beauty and grace despite differences in appearance and attire.
Level B2AdventureThe Copper Princess: A Story of Lake Superior MinesA daring rescue aboard a speeding train sparks an unlikely friendship between a struggling gentleman and a humble mine worker in the rugged Lake Superior mining region, where both…
Level C1AdventureThe Constant PrinceFive young princes of Portugal, restless for glory, debate honor, knighthood, and the chance to fight the infidel—setting the stage for a gripping tale of courage, faith, and sacri…
Level B2AdventureThe Congo Rovers: A Story of the Slave SquadronA young midshipman eagerly accepts a posting to the sloop Daphne, destined for the perilous West African coast, despite his father's grave concerns.
Level B1Children'sThe Conceited PigWhen Wilful the little pig hears strange noises in the night, he’s convinced a fire or mysterious blue butchers threaten the farm.
Level C1Children'sThe Complete Collection of Pictures and SongsDelight in a charming collection where whimsical illustrations bring classic children’s tales and songs to life, capturing the playful spirit of English countryside and old-world w…
Level B2AdventureThe Coming of the White Men: Stories of How Our Country Was DiscoveredTwo curious twins befriend Uncle Sam, a wise storyteller who brings to life the daring adventures and early struggles of those who discovered America, weaving tales of bravery, fre…
Level B2AdventureThe Coming Wave; Or, The Hidden Treasure of High RockCaught in a fierce tempest off Penobscot Bay, two honest working boys navigate dense fog and raging storms while uncovering secrets that tie the sea to hidden treasures on land.
Level C1Children'sThe Comical Creatures from WurtembergIn a lively woodland where cunning Weasels, playful Rabbits, and sly Foxes dwell, comical adventures unfold through vivid illustrations and charming tales, including the legendary…
PoetryThe Comic Adventures of Old Mother Hubbard, and Her Dog: In which is shewn the wonderful powers that good old lady possessed in the education of her favourite animalFollow the whimsical journey of Old Mother Hubbard and her clever dog as they embark on amusing adventures filled with unexpected lessons and delightful surprises.
Level B2Children'sThe Cockatoo's StoryA white cockatoo wrestles with feelings of guilt and misunderstanding as he recounts his remarkable story to a sharp-tongued gray parrot, while a kind boy named Herbert patiently t…
Level C1Children'sThe Cock-House at FellsgarthAt Fellsgarth, a storied school nestled between rivers and rugged hills, new boys face their first chaotic night amid boisterous fellows and unexpected challenges.
Level B2Children'sThe CochinealA father and son explore the hidden beauty of a tiny insect under a microscope, discovering a powerful lesson about God's care and wisdom in even the smallest creatures.
Level B2Children'sThe Club at Crow's CornerIn a cozy woodland corner, a curious club of animals gathers to share tales and adventures, led by the cunning Mr.
Level B2Children'sThe ClimbersIn a mountain town, a determined stable-boy with a hunger for knowledge defies expectations, dreaming of a better life beyond his humble beginnings.
Level C1AdventureThe Cliff Climbers: A Sequel to "The Plant Hunters"Vast, snow-crowned and mysterious, the Himalayas stretch across thousands of miles, harboring diverse climates, rare flora, and elusive mountain kingdoms.
PoetryThe Circus ProcessionStep into a vibrant parade where colorful characters and lively rhythms bring the magic of the circus to life through evocative verse.
Level A2AdventureThe Circus Boys on the Plains; Or, The Young Advance Agents Ahead of the ShowTwo daring boys navigate the chaotic world of circus advance agents, facing wild stunts, fierce rivalries, and thrilling adventures as they race to promote the show across the plai…
Level B2AdventureThe Circus Boys on the Mississippi; Or, Afloat with the Big Show on the Big RiverTensions rise under the big top as Teddy Tucker clashes with a fiery new clown, threatening the harmony of their circus troupe.
Level B2AdventureThe Circus Boys on the Flying Rings; Or, Making the Start in the Sawdust LifeTwo orphaned boys dream of the circus life, longing to escape hardship and soar through the air under the big top.
Level B1AdventureThe Circus Boys in Dixie Land; Or, Winning the Plaudits of the Sunny SouthTwo young circus performers return to their hometown, eager to prove their skills and chase dreams of their own show.
Level B2AdventureThe Circus Boys Across the Continent; Or, Winning New Laurels on the TanbarkTwo young circus performers eagerly prepare to join the Great Sparling Combined Shows for a thrilling summer tour across America, from the East Coast all the way to San Francisco,…
Level C1AdventureThe Circassian Chief: A Romance of RussiaTwo noble young horsemen journey through the rugged Russian landscape, leaving behind their studies for the promise of real warfare and adventure.
Level B2Children'sThe Chums of Scranton High: Or, Hugh Morgan's Uphill FightAt Scranton High, a spirited group of boys rallies around their beloved campus fence, gearing up for a fierce baseball season in the Three-Town League.
Level B2Children'sThe Chums of Scranton High out for the Pennant: or, In the Three Town LeagueHigh school friends face tough rivals and rainy setbacks as they strive for baseball glory in the competitive Three Town League, honing their skills and camaraderie both on and off…
Level B2AdventureThe Chums of Scranton High on the Cinder Path: Or, The Mystery of the Haunted QuarryFive adventurous high school friends set out on a nut-gathering expedition in the vibrant autumn woods near Scranton, only to uncover mysterious happenings around a haunted quarry…
Level B2Children'sThe Chums of Scranton High at Ice HockeyAs winter's first cold wave freezes Scranton’s baseball field, two inseparable friends prepare for a thrilling ice hockey showdown against rival teams, navigating school rivalries,…
Level B2Children'sThe Chronicles of RhodaA spirited young girl named Rhoda navigates family life, imagination, and the gentle discipline of her grandmother.
Level B1Children'sThe Christmas giftDuring a festive Christmas week, cousins reunite at Mr.
Level B1Children'sThe Christmas earningsAs Christmas approaches, cousins Ethel and Abby navigate family struggles and the challenge of earning money for gifts, all while facing the temper of the wealthy and difficult Mrs…
PoetryThe Christmas childCelebrate the magic of the season with charming verses that capture the wonder, joy, and traditions of Christmas through the eyes of children, weaving heartfelt stories and timeles…
Level B1Children'sThe Christmas Fairy, and Other StoriesIn a Christmas shadowed by illness and separation, two boys forge an unexpected friendship, discovering hope and kindness amid holiday disappointments.
Level B2Children'sThe Christmas Dream of Little CharlesOn Christmas Eve, young Charles dreams of a whimsical St.
Level B2Children'sThe Christmas DinnerIn a cozy farmhouse kitchen on Christmas Eve, a family prepares for their festive dinner, capturing the warmth, traditions, and joyful spirit of the holiday through simple, heartfe…
Level B2Children'sThe Christmas AngelOn a cold Christmas Eve, Miss Terry confronts the forgotten joy and memories hidden in an old box of children's toys, challenging her bitter view of the holiday as her servant Nora…
Level B2Children'sThe Choir School of St. Bede'sAt St.
Level C1PoetryThe Chinese Nightingale, and Other PoemsIn a quiet San Francisco night, a humble laundryman named Chang is visited by the enchanting spirit of a Chinese princess and her mythical nightingale, weaving ancient dreams and m…
Level B2Children'sThe Chinese KittenTwo sisters eagerly anticipate a surprise beach trip with their family, complete with sleeping in a tent and caring for their beloved cat.
Level B2Children'sThe Chinese Fairy BookVenture into a world where magical birds soar and mystical islands shimmer with gold and silver.
Level B2AdventureThe Children's PortionIn a humble kingdom where belief in a mystical Golden Age shapes every heart, the wise king’s children—Yestergold, Goldenday, Goldmorrow, and Faith—grow up guided by hope and lesso…
Level B2Children'sThe Children's PilgrimageIn a quiet London courtyard, two devoted siblings and their loyal dog wait anxiously for their stepmother’s recovery, unaware that her illness may change their lives forever.
Level B2PoetryThe Children's Own LongfellowJourney through stirring tales and vivid scenes where heroic sailors brave fierce storms, steadfast blacksmiths forge their destinies, and timeless legends unfold, all brought to l…
Level B2Children'sThe Children's Hour, v 5. Stories From Seven Old FavoritesStep into the enchanting Children's Hour with stories from seven timeless tales, where brave pilgrims, castaway sailors, and quirky knights embark on unforgettable adventures that…