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'sQueen HildegardeA delicate, discontented fifteen-year-old girl named Hilda seems in need of a change as her parents debate where she might find health and happiness.
Level B2Children'sQueechyA spirited young girl and her cheerful grandfather set off on a rustic autumn outing, finding joy in simple pleasures despite worn equipment and quiet worries.
Level C1AdventureQuarterdeck and Fok'sle: Stories of the SeaA mischievous boy named Young Brydell turns a navy yard into his battlefield, constructing a dirt fort and leading a playful yet fierce skirmish that tests the admiral’s patience a…
Level C1Children'sQuadrupeds, What They Are and Where Found: A Book of Zoology for BoysExplore the fascinating world of quadrupeds through vivid sketches and stories, from mysterious great apes hidden in distant forests to the diverse monkeys of Asia and Africa, reve…
Level B2Children'sPussy MeowFollow the heartfelt tale of Pussy Meow, a cat who shares her joys and sorrows, revealing the misunderstood life of felines and inspiring kindness toward our silent companions.
Level B1PoetryPunky Dunk and the Spotted PupA curious cat named Punky Dunk meets a lively spotted pup who arrives to join the family, sparking playful rivalry and unexpected friendship in this charming, rhymed tale of pets a…
PoetryPunky Dunk and the MouseDelight in whimsical verses and charming illustrations crafted to captivate and inspire the imagination of young children in a playful journey through rhyme and art.
PoetryPunky Dunk and the Gold FishDive into whimsical poems and charming illustrations crafted to delight young readers, where playful tales and lively verses bring a world of imagination to life.
Level B1AdventurePud Pringle, pirateFifteen-year-old Pud Pringle navigates small-town life with mischief and charm, from tricky grocery errands to sparring with local sourpuss Egbert.
Level B2FantasyPuck of Pook's HillTwo children’s midsummer play awakens the mischievous Puck, who invites them on a magical journey through England’s ancient past, where history and legend come alive beneath the hi…
Level B2Children'sPsycheHigh atop a mountain, a lonely princess with delicate, jewel-streaked wings longs to escape her vast castle and soar beyond the endless horizons.
Level B2Children'sPrudy Keeping HouseFour young siblings face a snowy day with curiosity and kindness, while their aunt must leave to care for a sick relative—leaving Prudy eager to take charge and keep the grand hous…
Level C1Children'sProverb StoriesA spirited young girl dreams of attending Class Day in a dazzling new dress, sparking a heartfelt tale of ambition, creativity, and the challenges of modest means in a close-knit c…
Level B1Children'sProud and Lazy: A Story for Little FolksA proud and lazy boy, accustomed to commanding others, faces the challenge of obedience and learning when sent to village school.
Level B2Children'sProfilesA thoughtful young woman embarks on her first solo trip, urged by her pastor to keep her "hands clean" in more ways than one.
Level B1HistoricalProfessor JohnnyA young boy nicknamed Professor Johnny finds himself facing an unexpected crisis when a sudden fire threatens his home, forcing him to act quickly and courageously while caring for…
Level B2Children'sPrincess Sukey: The story of a pigeon and her human friendsWhen a sickly pigeon chick is rejected by its own family, a kind-hearted boy named Titus takes her in, sparking an unusual friendship filled with care and adventure amid the challe…
Level B2Children'sPrincess Sarah, and Other StoriesAn orphaned girl, sheltered from the noisy city street, faces a sudden change when her late father's letter brings a mysterious aunt to her humble home—offering hope, kindness, and…
Level B1Children'sPrincess Polly's PlaymatesAt Sherwood Hall, Princess Polly and her friends receive a heartfelt letter from lonely Rose, who longs for playful companionship in her grand but quiet new home.
Level B2Children'sPrincess Polly's Gay WinterIn a charming town called Avondale, young Rose Atherton moves into a grand new home beside her friend Polly and her elegant cat.
Level B2Children'sPrincess Polly At PlayPrincess Polly and her friends eagerly anticipate a summer of seaside adventures, sailing, and mystery at Cliffmore.
Level B2HistoricalPrincess Belle-EtoileThree radiant siblings, born with stars on their foreheads and jewels in their hair, are set adrift by jealous relatives but saved by a corsair's family.
Level B2FantasyPrince Ricardo of Pantouflia: Being the Adventures of Prince Prigio's SonIn a kingdom where fairy gifts shape destinies, Prince Ricardo defies expectations by shunning books and chasing wild adventures, much to his clever father King Prigio’s concern.
Level B2FantasyPrince Prigio: From "His Own Fairy Book"In the whimsical kingdom of Pantouflia, where ancient legends awaken and dragons turn into princesses with a kiss, a royal baby boy is born amid skepticism about fairies and magic,…
Level C1FantasyPrince PrigioA royal baby’s christening turns magical when unseen fairies bestow enchanted gifts—like a purse that never empties and seven-league boots—sparking a fantastical tale of a prince d…
Level B2AdventurePrince Jan, St. BernardIn the snowy Alps, young St.
Level B2AdventurePrince Dusty: A Story of the Oil RegionsTwelve-year-old Arthur, teased and outcast by his cousins, embarks on a daring adventure with his cousin Cynthia as they imagine themselves a prince and princess exploring a world…
Level C1Children'sPride and His PrisonersIn a decaying Norman tower haunted not by ghosts but by the lingering spirits of Pride and Intemperance, a disinherited son lives overshadowed by family strife and ancient grudges—…
Level B2PoetryPretty Verses for All Good Children: In Words of One, Two, and Three SyllablesGentle tales and simple verses teach young readers the value of honesty, kindness, and the beauty found in everyday life—using only words of one, two, and three syllables to deligh…
Level B1Children'sPretty Tales for the NurseryA young girl cherishes her birthday gift—a book that opens a world of stories and lessons, inspiring her to learn and grow.
Level C1HistoricalPrentice HughIn medieval Exeter, a courageous boy fends off a gang of bullies with the help of a loyal hound and the unexpected protection of a Franciscan friar, revealing a world of fierce loy…
Level B2Children'sPrecepts in Practice; or, Stories Illustrating the ProverbsOn a frozen lake, two brothers reveal contrasting paths: one carefree and defiant, the other patient and devoted, as they navigate the challenges of family duty and the wisdom of h…
Level B2AdventurePost HasteIn a rugged Irish coastal village, young Philip Maylands idolizes the daring yet troubled George Aspel, whose Viking heritage fuels dreams of adventure and freedom amidst harsh sea…
Level A2PoetryPorridge poetryDelight in a whimsical collection of playful poems where kitchen creatures, curious characters, and imaginative tales come to life with humor and charm, turning everyday moments in…
Level C1Children'sPopular Tales from the NorseStep into a world where ancient Norse legends come alive through faithful translations of timeless nursery tales, blending the charm of folklore with the raw spirit of tradition—if…
Level C1Children'sPopular TalesAt a lively village fair, a clever parrot and a reluctant performing donkey vie for the crowd’s attention, weaving a charming tale of humor and unexpected talents amid colorful cha…
Level C1Children'sPopular TalesStep into a world where timeless fairy tales spring to life, revealing the origins and transformations of beloved stories like Puss in Boots and Bluebeard.
Level C1AdventurePopular Adventure TalesEmbark on a daring journey through the vast, untamed fur countries of North America, where wild landscapes stretch beyond civilization and survival depends on courage and resilienc…
Level B1Children'sPoppy's PresentsIn a crowded, shadowed city, young Poppy discovers an unexpected gift that promises to change her life—two tiny babies arriving on her doorstep.
Level B1MysteryPoppy Ott's pedigreed picklesA clever boy convinces his skeptical friend to start a unique Pickle Parlor, betting that offering better pickles will win customers despite the odds.
Level B1MysteryPoppy Ott and the stuttering parrotWhen Jerry Todd and his friend Red encounter Poppy Ott, a scruffy boy living in a rickety wagon with a gruff old man claiming to be a detective, their summer adventure in the small…
Level B1MysteryPoppy Ott and the galloping snailTwo adventurous boys set out on a carefree hitchhiking trip through sun-baked highways and quiet countryside, only to find themselves mysteriously stranded on a deserted road with…
Level B2Children'sPop-Guns: One Serious and One FunnyJoin a lively group of children as they become the spirited "Pop-gun Children," learning valuable lessons about kindness and good habits through playful tales filled with warmth an…
Level B2Children'sPoor and Proud; Or, The Fortunes of Katy Redburn: A Story for Young FolksIn a struggling coastal town, young Katy Redburn faces poverty and pride with courage and kindness as she seeks to care for her sick mother and navigate the challenges of childhood…
Level B2Children'sPoor Blossom: The Story of a HorseBorn into a world where horses serve man, a young colt learns early lessons about kindness, duty, and the complex relationship between master and beast.
Level B2Children'sPollyanna Grows UpA spirited young nurse confronts her sister's deep sorrow and bitterness, challenging her to embrace hope and purpose beyond grief.
Level B2HistoricalPollyannaA stern woman reluctantly agrees to care for her late sister’s lively eleven-year-old daughter, whose arrival promises to stir the quiet household and challenge its somber ways.
Level B2Children'sPolly: A New-Fashioned GirlUnder a scorching July sun, a spirited girl named Polly sneaks through fields and gardens, capturing the attention of birds and family alike.