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 C1HistoricalTwice-Told TalesIn a tense New England gripped by tyranny under King James II, townspeople gather amid fear and whispered rebellion as Governor Andros parades his troops, stirring a silent but pow…
Level B2AdventureTwice BoughtIn the rugged goldfields of Oregon, Tom Brixton battles the harsh realities of luck, gambling, and betrayal, determined to reclaim what was stolen by cheating—while his friend Fred…
Level B2Children'sTwenty-Two Goblins. Translated from the SanskritIn a mystical kingdom by the Godavari River, a brave king embarks on a strange night-time quest involving a magical monk, enchanted fruits, and a talking goblin’s tales.
Level C1Children'sTwenty-Two GoblinsA mighty king uncovers a hidden world of goblins and magic when a mysterious monk leads him to a haunted cemetery and a laughing corpse.
PoetryTwenty Six Choice Poetical Extracts: Selected from Celebrated Authors, and Printed from Copper Plates Engraved Expressly for the Work, Each Embellished with a Beautiful Vignette, Illustrative of the SubjectDiscover a curated collection of twenty-six exquisite poetic extracts, each paired with a beautifully engraved vignette that brings the verses to life and invites you into a world…
Level B1PoetryTwas the Night before Christmas: A Visit from St. NicholasOn Christmas Eve, a hush falls over the house as stockings are hung and children dream sweetly—until the sudden arrival of St.
Level C1Children'sTurquoise and RubyAt an elite girls' school famed for its noble education, Nora defies expectations by refusing the coveted role of Helen of Troy, sparking tensions as the annual prize distribution…
Level C1Children'sTurns of Fortune, and Other TalesIn a cold, shadowed room, Sarah Bond tends to her ailing father, their modest life marked by hardship and quiet resilience.
Level C1Children'sTurkish fairy tales and folk talesIn a desert where survival seems impossible, a prince transforms into a stag after drinking a mysterious puddle, forcing him and his sister to navigate a strange new life together.
Level A2AdventureTum Tum, the Jolly Elephant: His Many AdventuresA cheerful young elephant named Tum Tum lives happily in the dense jungle of India, where playful adventures and the ever-present threat of danger from hunters challenge his courag…
Level C1AdventureTuffy Todd's Adventure: A True StoryJoin Tuffy Todd on a thrilling summer adventure in the Catskill Mountains, chronicled through charming verses that capture the real-life excitement and warmth of a memorable vacati…
Level B2HistoricalTry and Trust; Or, Abner Holden's Bound BoyA distant nephew is left orphaned and penniless, forcing a proud, wealthy family to decide whether to welcome him or send him away to labor.
Level B2Children'sTry Again; Or, the Trials and Triumphs of Harry West. A Story for Young FolksA modest boy living in a poorhouse faces the stern judgment of a pompous town official, sparking a tale of trials and triumphs in a small Massachusetts town.
Level B2AdventureTrumpeter Fred: A Story of the PlainsIn the heart of Indian country, young trumpeter Fred rides with a small, vulnerable troop facing looming threats from war parties on the plains.
Level C1AdventureTrue to the Old Flag: A Tale of the American War of IndependenceAmid rising tensions on the American frontier in 1774, a young boy is sent westward to learn frontier life and witness the unfolding conflict between loyal British settlers and reb…
Level B2HistoricalTrue to His Home: A Tale of the Boyhood of FranklinExplore the formative years of Benjamin Franklin through a vivid blend of history and fiction, capturing the spirit of American patriotism and the influences that shaped one of the…
Level B2AdventureTrue to Himself; Or, Roger Strong's Struggle for PlaceThrown into hardship by their father's disgrace and imprisonment, Roger Strong and his sister Kate must navigate scorn and suspicion while fighting to clear their family name and c…
Level B2AdventureTrue heroismTrapped indoors by endless rain at Ivy Lodge, a lively group of children and their wise uncle face restless days and simmering conflicts, setting the stage for unexpected lessons i…
Level C1AdventureTrue TildaA sharp-witted girl recovering in a hospital ward becomes entwined in the mysterious fevered pleas of a bedridden woman, sparking a quest to uncover the identity of the elusive Art…
Level B2Children'sTrue Stories of Wonderful Deeds: Pictures and Stories for Little FolkDiscover the thrilling true stories of bravery and kindness, from King Charles hiding in a secret oak to Bonnie Prince Charlie's daring escape, brought to life with vivid pictures…
Level C1HistoricalTrue Stories of History and BiographyAn ancient oak chair carries young listeners through vivid tales of eminent historical figures, blending authentic events with imaginative details that bring the private lives of t…
Level B2Children'sTrue Stories about Dogs and CatsIn a cozy New England village, two young brothers learn valuable lessons about kindness, obedience, and the loyalty of dogs through heartfelt bedtime stories shared with their devo…
Level B2Children'sTrue Riches; Or, Wealth Without WingsIn a bustling store, Leonard Jasper revels in the day's profitable trades, revealing a shrewd and cunning approach to business that blurs the line between honesty and deception.
Level B2AdventureTrue BlueAmid a fierce Atlantic storm, a steadfast British warship battles the relentless sea while its crew faces peril both from nature and the fragile health of a beloved nurse, testing…
Level C1Children'sTroublesome Comforts: A Story for ChildrenA lively family embarks on a bustling train journey full of spirited children, playful mischief, and tender moments, capturing the joys and challenges of childhood adventures by th…
Level B2AdventureTroop One of the LabradorIn the rugged wilderness of Labrador, Doctor Joe returns to a grateful family he aided, while two hardy brothers face perilous adventures in a land where grit and courage are the k…
Level B2Children'sTripping with the Tucker TwinsAfter their boarding school burns down, two spirited twins and their friend navigate recovery, friendship, and mischief while one copes with a troublesome ankle injury.
Level B2AdventureTreveA striking young collie pup with unmatched beauty and promise is hauled westward for a prestigious dog show, but his wary gaze hints at a deeper story beyond the eager ambitions of…
Level B2Children'sTreasury of American Indian TalesIn a Pueblo village where adobe homes rise like ancient fortresses, a young brave named Little Rabbit discovers the true meaning of courage and strength through daring games and th…
Level C1AdventureTreasure of the Seas: IllustratedA daring voyage unfolds as a group of boys and their captain battle storms, mysterious islands, and buried pirate treasure, navigating perilous seas and unearthing secrets of lost…
Level B2AdventureTreasure of Kings: Being the Story of the Discovery of the "Big Fish," or the Quest of the Greater Treasure of the Incas of Peru.A young boy encounters the formidable John Bannister and embarks on a daring quest along the remote Sussex coast.
Level C1FantasyTravels and Adventures of Little Baron Trump and His Wonderful Dog BulgerA young armless knight defies fate and foes alike, wielding sword-stirrups with unmatched strength and courage during the Crusades.
Level B2Children'sTravellers' StoriesTwo curious boys beg their mother to recount her adventurous European travels, setting sail on a vivid journey across stormy seas, icy wonders, and foreign shores filled with disco…
Level B2AdventureTrail and Trading Post; or, The Young Hunters of the OhioTwo young hunters navigate the dangers of the Ohio frontier after the French and Indian War, tracking elusive buffalo while wary of lingering Native American hostilities.
Level C1Children'sTraditional Nursery Songs of England, With Pictures by Eminent Modern ArtistsDelight in a charming collection of traditional English nursery songs, brought to life with whimsical illustrations and timeless melodies that spark joy, rhyme, and rhythm for chil…
Level B2Children'sTradingOn a snowy Christmas Eve, Matilda prepares for a dazzling party in a warmly lit house, but her thoughts linger on those less fortunate in the cold.
Level C1MysteryTrackers of the Fog Pack; Or, Jack Ralston Flying BlindTwo skilled aviators and Secret Service agents, restless during a peaceful San Diego respite, yearn for action amid the serene coastal calm.
Level B2AdventureTour of the Zero ClubA thrilling winter adventure unfolds as Harry Webb and his friends race rival toboggan teams down icy hills, facing daring challenges and fierce competition amid the snowy exciteme…
Level A2AdventureToto, the Bustling Beaver: His Many AdventuresA lively young beaver named Toto ventures out onto the icy river, sparking a search by his worried family and friends as winter’s chill surrounds their cozy, underwater lodge.
Level B2FantasyToto's Merry WinterIn a cozy kitchen where firelight brings pots and kettles to life, a boy named Toto shares whimsical winter days with his animal friends—a raccoon, a bear, and a pig—blurring the l…
Level B2HistoricalTor, a Street Boy of JerusalemIn the bustling streets of ancient Jerusalem, hungry street boy Tor navigates hardship and harsh guardianship, his fierce spirit clashing with a blind beggar who claims him as kin.
Level B1FantasyTop o' the World: A Once Upon a Time TaleA curious nine-year-old girl named Maida longs to be grown-up and escape childhood's limits—especially to eat endless ice cream and stay up late.
Level B2Children'sToo dearly boughtIn a smoky English town, a persuasive outsider stirs the working men to rise for better wages and shorter hours, sparking a passionate town strike.
Level B2AdventureTony, the Hero; Or, A Brave Boy's Adventures with a TrampA weary boy wanders the countryside with a mysterious tramp who claims to be his uncle, but Tony dreams of a different life—one with a home, a future, and the chance to rise above…
Level B2Children'sTony the Tramp; Or, Right is MightA weary boy trapped in a nomadic life questions the fate that binds him to a roving, uncertain existence alongside a grim, gypsy-like companion.
Level B2Children'sToni, the Little WoodcarverHigh in the Bernese Oberland, young Toni lives simply and happily with his family in a stone hut by the Wild brook.
Level B2Children'sTommy's Thanksgiving dinnerStep into a playful Thanksgiving pageant where Tommy dreams of a lively cast of characters—from a jolly Turkey to Cranberry Maids and talking Vegetables—all preparing for the holid…
Level B2AdventureTommy Trot's Visit to Santa ClausA lonely boy named Tommy Trot embarks on a magical Christmas Eve journey to Santa Claus’s snowy city at the North Pole, where he joins his friend Johnny Stout on an exciting hunt f…