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 C1RomanceOld comradesIn a gloomy London lodging on Christmas Eve, a stern retired colonel and his composed daughter navigate the rigid discipline of their daily life, hinting at quiet tensions and unsp…
Level B2Children'sOld Wonder-Eyes, and Other Stories for ChildrenIn a charming English garden, a surly old owl named "Old Wonder-Eyes" holds a bittersweet secret tied to a gentle girl named Minnie, whose love tamed even the wildest creatures.
Level B2Children'sOld Rough the miserIn a peaceful woodland farm, a fierce feud ignites between a crow and a water-rat over a coveted cornfield, with wise Judge Owl called to settle the dispute.
PoetryOld Mother Hubbard and Her DogFollow the whimsical adventures of Old Mother Hubbard and her loyal dog through charming verses filled with surprises and delight at every turn.
Level C1AdventureOld JackAmid the raucous chaos of Donnybrook Fair, a young boy named Jack grapples with loss and hardship as his troubled father leads him through a world of wild revelry and harsh realiti…
Level B2Children'sOld Greek StoriesJourney into ancient Greece where mighty beings like Jupiter, Neptune, and Pluto rule the skies, seas, and underworld, weaving tales of power, beauty, and mystery that have enchant…
Level B2Children'sOld Greek Folk Stories Told AnewStep into a world where gods and mortals mingle, and nature itself whispers ancient secrets.
Level B2AdventureOld Gold: The Cruise of the "Jason" BrigUnder the scorching sun of Johnstown, Guiana, a seasoned captain and two determined men confront danger and intrigue aboard the sugar-laden brig Jason.
Level B2Children'sOld French Fairy TalesIn a kingdom ruled by the kind King Benin, his beloved daughter Blondine faces the jealousy and cruelty of her wicked stepmother and stepsister, while navigating palace intrigues a…
Level C1Children'sOld Deccan Days; or, Hindoo Fairy Legends Current in Southern IndiaJourney into the enchanting world of Southern India’s oral traditions, where fairy legends reveal ancient gods, local heroes, and mystical customs untouched by orthodox beliefs.
Level C1Children'sOld Christmas: from the Sketch Book of Washington IrvingStep back into a winter world where the glow of the fireside and the warmth of family transform the bleakest season into a celebration of love, laughter, and timeless Christmas tra…
Level B2AdventureOld Caravan DaysAs the Padgett family leaves their Ohio farm in 1857 for the untamed Western prairie, young Robert Day and Aunt Corinne embark on a hopeful journey filled with memories and new beg…
Level C1AdventureOlaf the Glorious: A Story of the Viking AgeA young slave boy’s daring knife-throwing skills catch the eye of Viking warriors in a bustling Esthonian port, setting the stage for a tale of adventure, battles, and the rise of…
Level B2AdventureOff to the Wilds: Being the Adventures of Two BrothersTwo English brothers navigate life on a remote Drakensberg farm, where wild adventures and unexpected friendships with local Zulu boys challenge their notions of loyalty and surviv…
Level B2AdventureOff to Sea: The Adventures of Jovial Jack Junker on his Road to FameA cheerful boy named Jack Junker grows up in a lively, blended family, navigating the challenges of a new stepmother and her unruly children while dreaming of a life at sea.
Level B2AdventureOff Santiago with SampsonA daring boy defies "Keep Out" signs to explore a bustling coal yard where a mighty iron steamer rests silent.
Level C1AdventureOdysseus, the Hero of Ithaca: Adapted from the Third Book of the Primary Schools of Athens, GreeceEmbark on the epic journey of Odysseus, a cunning hero whose adventures span from the fall of Troy to his perilous voyage home to Ithaca, blending bravery, wisdom, and the timeless…
Level B2Children'sOdd made evenBetty grapples with restless moods and life's disappointments beneath her mother's watchful eye in rainy London society.
Level B2Children'sOddIn a cozy nursery barred from the outside world, five spirited children pass the dull winter afternoons with tales spun from the muffin man's rounds—until jealousy, mischief, and p…
Level B2Children'sOakleighIn a grand house named Oakleigh, siblings Edith, Jack, and Cynthia navigate family responsibilities and dreams, as Jack proposes a daring plan to raise chickens for profit—challeng…
Level B2AdventureO'er Many Lands, on Many SeasA sturdy ship and her brave crew face eerie calm and looming danger near a hostile shore in the Indian Ocean, where the mission to end slavery and piracy hangs on the mercy of the…
Level A2Children'sNursery Lessons, in Words of One SyllableDelightful lessons in simple words teach kindness, nature, and hard work through charming scenes of children, animals, and everyday life, inviting young readers to explore the worl…
Level B1Children'sNursery Comedies: Twelve Tiny Plays for ChildrenA piece of the sky falls on Henny Penny’s head, sparking a whimsical journey with her animal friends to warn the Queen.
Level B2AdventureNurse Heatherdale's StoryA devoted nurse reflects on the day she first spotted a charming group of children, setting the stage for a heartfelt tale of care, companionship, and the quiet dramas of everyday…
Level C1Children'sNumber Three, Winifred PlaceIn a quiet London street, Mrs.
Level C1AdventureNow or Never; Or, The Adventures of Bobby Bright: A Story for Young FolksYoung Bobby Bright navigates the challenges of youth with sharp wit and strong principles, facing adventures that test his character and courage.
Level C1PoetryNothing to EatIn a city where famine is unknown, wealthy Mrs.
Level B2Children'sNot Quite EighteenOn a sunlit Midsummer's Day, a mysterious silver mine legend stirs hope in a struggling farm family, while young Hester Gale finds magic and adventure in the seemingly ordinary, ro…
Level B2AdventureNorthland HeroesIn a land of kings and gods, a Viking youth named Frithiof defies lineage and fate to win the heart of princess Ingeborg, sparking a tale of courage, honor, and unyielding love ami…
Level B2AdventureNorthern Lands; Or, Young America in Russia and PrussiaA young scholar with little seafaring skill unexpectedly becomes captain of a training ship, stirring conflict among the crew as they navigate the Baltic and explore the customs an…
Level B1Children'sNorthcliffe boysA determined boy named George Horbrook sets out to prove himself as a mason’s apprentice despite doubts from others, balancing work, school, and the challenges of growing up in a s…
Level C1Children'sNorth and SouthAs Edith prepares for marriage and a new life in Corfu, her cousin Margaret contemplates the impending changes and bittersweet farewells within their close-knit family circle.
Level B2Children'sNorman Vallery; or, How to Overcome Evil with GoodAs Fanny eagerly awaits her family’s return from India, she imagines the joyful reunion with her spirited brother Norman, whose free-spirited nature may bring unexpected challenges…
Level B2Children'sNorma: A Flower ScoutThree girls arrive at a muddy rural station, only to face a lazy, unhelpful driver and a challenging trek to their new home at Green Hill.![Cover of Noon-Day Fancies for Our Little Pets: Fully Illustrated by Oscar M. [Editor] Dunham](https://dsx1pat3ljtul.cloudfront.net/books/daf4n7oe1ofc73dhb97g.webp)
Level A2PoetryNoon-Day Fancies for Our Little Pets: Fully IllustratedDelight in charming, illustrated poems that capture the playful adventures and tender moments of childhood and beloved pets—from a daring kitten’s treetop climb to joyful Thanksgiv…
Level B1PoetryNonsense for old and youngDive into a whimsical world where playful poems and quirky illustrations bring to life mischievous antics, witty social satire, and delightfully absurd tales that charm both young…
Level B2PoetryNonsense SongsEmbark on whimsical voyages with peculiar creatures—from an Owl and Pussy-Cat’s moonlit wedding to a Duck’s daring ride on a Kangaroo’s back—where playful verse and delightful nons…
Level C1PoetryNonsense Drolleries: The Owl & The Pussy-Cat—The Duck & The Kangaroo.Embark on whimsical journeys with an owl and a pussy-cat, a duck and a kangaroo, as playful verses and charming illustrations invite you into a world of delightful nonsense and ima…
Level C1PoetryNonsense BooksDive into a whimsical world where playful verses and quirky characters bring nonsense to life with perfect rhythm and delightful charm, inviting readers of all ages to enjoy the in…
Level B1Children'sNoel's Christmas treeTwo siblings eagerly await the arrival of their mysterious new brother from India, sparking curiosity and cautious first encounters in a bustling London home filled with secrets, f…
Level B2AdventureNobody's boy (Sans famille)An orphan boy raised in a poor French village faces hardships and heartache when a family tragedy strikes, setting him on a journey filled with loyalty, friendship, and the search…
Level B2Children'sNobodyWhen Tom meets Lois Lothrop, a simple yet captivating country girl with strong religious convictions, he faces family warnings against a match that could jeopardize his future and…
Level B2FantasyNo-Time-Land: A Story for Girls and BoysIn a world where no one has time for anything, young Guy is whisked away to No-Time-Land, a neglected town frozen in hurry and neglect.
Level B2Children'sNo talent, and Phil's pansiesAmity Bogardus, a wealthy but plain and talentless girl, struggles with self-doubt amid family doubts and social expectations.
Level B2Children'sNo royal roadIn a charming old cottage hidden away from the world, young Lilla grows up under her grandmother’s care, learning valuable lessons about ambition, diligence, and becoming a kind, c…
Level B2Children'sNo and Other Stories Compiled by Uncle HumphreyYoung readers are guided through valuable life lessons about obedience, kindness, and making wise choices, all centered on the powerful impact of the simple word "No.
Level C1AdventureNo Surrender! A Tale of the Rising in La VendeeAmid the tranquil English coast, the Stansfield family navigates the tides of life with fearless spirit and close kinship.
Level B2AdventureNo Moss; Or, The Career of a Rolling StoneA spirited crew of boys aboard the Storm King yacht embrace naval discipline, camaraderie, and adventure as they drill, race through the rigging, and prepare to prove themselves in…