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'sLady Mary and Her Nurse; Or, A Peep into the Canadian ForestA curious little girl named Lady Mary explores the wonders of the Canadian forest through her nurse’s stories and a charming pet flying squirrel.
Level C1HistoricalLady Lucy's secretYoung Lady Lucy, heir to a grand estate, struggles under her strict aunt’s harsh care and dreams of a freer, happier life beyond her gilded cage.
Level C1Children'sLady JaneA delicate young girl and her weary mother journey through the lush Louisiana landscape by train, surrounded by vibrant characters and breathtaking scenery.
Level B2Children'sLady Daisy, and Other StoriesA cherished doll named Lady Daisy embarks on a seaside adventure with little Flora, but a moment of distraction leads to mishaps that threaten her perfect appearance.
Level C1HistoricalLady Betty's governessA young governess leaves her humble parsonage to serve at Stanton Court, tasked with caring for a hunchbacked girl amid the intrigues of aristocratic life.
Level B2AdventureLaddie: A True Blue StoryIn a world where enchanted woods hide secrets and magic, a little sister embarks on a daring solo journey to deliver a mysterious letter for her brother Laddie, facing unseen dange…
Level B2Children'sLaddie, and Miss Toosey's missionAn old woman embarks on a bustling train journey, clutching her belongings and sharing tales of Laddie, a remarkable figure known for hard work and kindness.
Level B2Children'sLad: A DogAn eighty-pound collie named Lad embodies courage, wisdom, and unwavering loyalty as he navigates life at The Place alongside his beloved Lady, guarding their home and upholding a…
Level B2Children'sKorean Fairy TalesIn the highlands of Korea, a clever tiger known as Mountain Uncle faces a surprising challenge when he falls into a hunter’s trap and must confront the consequences of his own mann…
Level B2AdventureKobo: A Story of the Russo-Japanese WarAmid the looming Russo-Japanese War, a young British observer aboard a ship witnesses the tense approach to conflict in East Asia, uncovering the courage and strategy behind Japan’…
Level C1RomanceKnightly Legends of Wales; or, The Boy's Mabinogion: Being the Earliest Welsh Tales of King Arthur in the Famous Red Book of HergestDive into the earliest Welsh tales of King Arthur, where wild adventures, chivalry, and ancient magic intertwine in vivid stories drawn from the mysterious Red Book of Hergest, rev…
Level B1Children'sKittyleen: Flaxie Frizzle StoriesA mischievous three-year-old named Kittyleen arrives at Flaxie Frizzle’s bustling home, promising playful chaos and heartwarming lessons in kindness and growth amidst a snowy day t…
Level B2Children'sKittyboy's ChristmasA lost little black cat braves the cold and finds unexpected warmth in a stranger’s home on Christmas Eve.
Level B2Children'sKitty's enemyTwo young gardeners, Kitty and Bob, notice a mysterious, red-haired boy spying on them from next door, sparking curiosity and cautious suspicion during a slow Easter holiday.
Level B1AdventureKitty's Picnic, and Other StoriesA young girl dreams of joining a grand picnic near an ancient castle but faces disappointment—until her uncle invites her on a special adventure to explore the ruins and create the…
Level B2Children'sKitty's Class Day and Other StoriesEager to shine at Class Day, spirited Kitty plans a dazzling new gown on a tight budget, navigating sisterly caution and neighborhood gossip in a heartfelt tale of youthful dreams…
Level B1Children'sKitty's Christmas treeWhen Kitty faces unfair punishment at school, her mother’s gentle support and their close-knit community offer warmth and lessons in kindness during the approaching Christmas seaso…
Level B2Children'sKitty TrenireOn a scorching afternoon, four children find themselves perched on an old garden wall, unaware that their playful mischief and chance happenings will alter their fates forever.
Level B2Children'sKitty MaynardA spirited young girl is sent to spend the summer with her aunt in the countryside, where she faces new lessons beyond the classroom and discovers the challenges of growing up away…
Level B2AdventureKit of Greenacre FarmOn lookout duty at Greenacre Farm, Kit faces the challenge of protecting a prized huckleberry patch from persistent berry thieves.
Level B2FantasyKisington TownIn the peaceful town of Kisington, young Harold, a beloved and gifted reader, discovers the magic held within the town's library, forging friendships and unlocking stories that pro…
Level C1PoetryKipling Stories and Poems Every Child Should Know, Book IIDiscover the vivid tales and stirring poems shaped by a boy raised amid the bustling, diverse life of 19th-century Bombay, whose early experiences across continents ignite a rich i…
Level B2HistoricalKingsford, QuarterA tired fifteen-year-old boy arrives at a new school only to face a rough welcome from rowdy upperclassmen.
Level B2PoetryKing WinterStep into the frosty realm where King Winter reigns from his icy throne, spreading snow and magic across the land while Jack Frost watches over the children’s behavior, bringing jo…
Level B2AdventureKing Matthias and the Beggar BoyA mysterious fortress with no doors or windows guards secrets as a lone traveler arrives, weary and curious.
Level B2RomanceKing Arthur's Knights: The Tales Re-told for Boys & GirlsJourney into a world of magic, valor, and chivalry where King Arthur and his knights embark on daring quests to protect the weak, uphold truth, and defend honor in a land alive wit…
Level C1AdventureKing Alfred's Viking: A Story of the First English FleetA fierce Viking prince, dispossessed by a ruthless king, finds himself commanding King Alfred’s first English fleet.
Level C1AdventureKimIn the bustling streets of Lahore, a clever boy named Kim navigates a world of secret missions, shifting identities, and ancient magic, caught between his English heritage and nati…
Level C1RomanceKilmeny of the OrchardAmid the hopeful spring air of Queenslea College, two cousins face their futures—one a charming, practical graduate, the other a determined doctor rising from humble beginnings—set…
Level B2Children'sKillykinickIn the quiet summer after Commencement, a group of boys dubbed the “left overs” at Saint Andrew’s find adventure and friendship amid challenges both physical and personal, as young…
Level C1AdventureKilgorman: A Story of Ireland in 1798Amidst the turbulent backdrop of Ireland in 1798, young heroes Barry Gallagher, Tim, and Kit embark on thrilling adventures filled with youthful energy, hope, and the spirit of boy…
Level B2AdventureKidnapping in the Pacific; Or, The Adventures of Boas Ringdon: A long four-part YarnStranded on a remote Pacific island after a shipwreck, a group of naval men seek shelter with a mysterious old sailor whose grudging hospitality hides a dark past—setting the stage…
Level B2AdventureKen Ward in the JungleTwo brothers embark on a daring expedition into Mexico's untamed jungle, where wild rivers, exotic wildlife, and ancient mysteries await.
Level C1FantasyKeeping Tryst: A Tale of King Arthur's TimeA young page yearns for knighthood but lacks the strength for heroic battle—until a mysterious minstrel reveals a secret quest that calls for unwavering faithfulness and courage be…
Level B1Children'sKaty Hunter's homesSeven-year-old Katy Hunter faces loneliness and hardship after losing her parents and moving to a grim city alley, where she must navigate a harsh world of poverty, unkind neighbor…
Level B2Children'sKatie RobertsonA young girl steps into factory life, navigating the challenges of work, family duty, and faith in a world where honor and independence must be earned.
Level B2HistoricalKathie's SoldiersAs war looms over Brookside, young Robert eagerly embraces the thrill of marching off to battle, while his family debates the true meaning of courage, duty, and sacrifice.
Level B2Children'sKate's ordealYoung Katie Haydon dreams of a bright future in London, working in her cousin’s shop, but must navigate her mother's concerns and the challenge of proving the honor in humble servi…
Level C1Children'sKarl Krinken, His Christmas StockingIn a humble coastal home, little Carl Krinken eagerly hangs his Christmas stocking, dreaming of treats and toys despite the family's meager means.
Level B2Children'sKalitan, Our Little Alaskan CousinIn the frozen wilderness of Alaska, young Kalitan Tenas, a resilient Thlinkit boy, meets Ted Strong, an adventurous visitor from Boston.
PoetryJuvenile Sports; or, Youth's PastimesDive into lively verses celebrating the joys and adventures of childhood play, capturing the spirited pastimes that shape youth in rhythmic poetry.
Level B1Children'sJust in timePollie struggles with forgetfulness and family expectations as she balances chores, sibling squabbles, and a longing for freedom.
Level B2AdventureJust his luckThree boys face harsh consequences after a daring peach theft turns sour, revealing sharp conflicts of loyalty and power in a small village.
Level C1Children'sJust Sixteen.As winter’s first snow blankets Sandyport, Georgie Talcott faces a harsh new reality: her family home sold, her mother gone, and a meager income to start her adult life.
Level B2Children'sJust PattyAt St.
Level B2Children'sJust DavidHigh on a mountain, young David lives in a humble cabin with his ailing father, finding joy and expression through his violin amidst the wild beauty surrounding them.
Level A2HistoricalJunior Park Ranger Program: Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National MonumentsExplore the mysteries of Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments through the eyes of a Junior Park Ranger, uncovering ancient pottery, native plants, and the story of the…
Level B2AdventureJunior High School Literature, Book 1Explore a rich collection of stories, poems, and ballads that inspire courage, loyalty, and love of nature and country, weaving American ideals into adventures from chivalry to mod…