Poetry
Read Poetry Classics in English
75 poetry 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 poetry classics to read in English as a learner?
The best poetry classics for English learners are the well-known titles you can read in the original — start with Fairy Realm: A Collection of the Favourite Old Tales Told in Verse, Fables of Flowers for the Female Sex. With Zephyrus and Flora, a Vision and Fables for the Frivolous. 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 B2PoetryMore Bab BalladsDive into a whimsical world where a disguised bumboat woman joins a naval crew, revealing charming tales of love, loyalty, and unexpected adventure on the seas.
Level B2AdventureMore About Teddy B. and Teddy G., the Roosevelt Bears: Being Volume Two Depicting Their Further Travels and AdventuresTwo adventurous Teddy Bears set out from their Colorado den to explore the East, encountering thrilling escapades from balloon rides to city fairs, all while teaching children abou…
Level B2PoetryMatthew Arnold's Sohrab and Rustum, and other poemsEpic narratives and poignant lyrical poems explore timeless themes of heroism, loss, and human experience, weaving classical tales like Sohrab and Rustum with reflections on life,…
Level B2PoetryMany Voices: PoemsStep into a moonlit garden where the boundary between life and death blurs, and a restless spirit seeks warmth and belonging in a world that no longer answers.
Level B2PoetryMain Street, and Other PoemsStep into the quiet charm and heartfelt moments of everyday life, where snowy Main Street, cozy homes, and simple joys like a child’s snowman reveal the warmth beneath the ordinary…
Level B2PoetryLundy's Lane, and Other PoemsExperience the fierce Battle of Lundy's Lane through the eyes of Rufus Gale, a veteran whose memories capture the valor, loss, and lasting spirit of those who fought in the War of…
Level B2PoetryLumber LyricsCelebrate the warmth and joy of Christmas through heartfelt verses that invite you to set aside daily burdens and embrace the youthful spirit within, all woven with a loving nod to…
Level B2PoetryLittle WillieA whimsical glimpse into the mischievous world of Little Willie, where bedtime rituals and childhood antics stir both humor and curiosity in this charming collection of poetry.
Level B2PoetryLittle Wideawake: A story book for little childrenJoin Rosie, a spirited little girl, and her lively siblings on a snowy countryside adventure filled with playful mischief, unexpected thrills, and heartwarming moments that capture…
Level B2PoetryLittle SarahA determined girl races through each step of growing grain to bake her grandmother’s Johnny-cake in record time, discovering the patience and effort behind simple blessings.
Level B2PoetryLife on the Farm; in Amusing RhymeDiscover the charm and humor of rural life brought to life through playful and entertaining verse, capturing the everyday joys and quirks of the farm in amusing rhyme.
Level B2PoetryLast VersesImmerse yourself in a vivid world of childhood wonder, where imagination turns woodland hideouts into enchanted realms filled with fairies, knights, and grand adventures.![Cover of Land of play: Verses, rhymes, stories by Sara Tawney [Compiler] Lefferts](https://dsx1pat3ljtul.cloudfront.net/books/dabnh109638s73a328i0.webp)
Level B2PoetryLand of play: Verses, rhymes, storiesStep into a whimsical world of verses, rhymes, and stories where beloved characters and timeless tales come alive—from a quaint barge home to playful animals and enchanting poems,…
Level B2PoetryLady ClareA noblewoman discovers she was switched at birth with the earl’s true daughter and faces the choice between her identity and true love as her betrothed stands unwavering by her sid…
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 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…
Level B2PoetryIn the Yule-Log Glow, Book II: Christmas Tales from 'Round the WorldIn a harsh castle on the Rhine, the cruel Baron von Schrochslofsleschshoffinger squeezes his tenants dry, but his kind-hearted daughter Bertha secretly aids the oppressed—while a m…
Level B2PoetryIn Flanders Fields, and Other PoemsAmid the poppies of Flanders fields, the voices of fallen soldiers rise, urging the living to carry on their fight and honor their sacrifice through stirring, poignant verse that c…
Level B2PoetryImpertinent PoemsWitty and reflective poems tackle everyday struggles, social quirks, and the human spirit with a playful yet profound voice.
Level B2PoetryHymns and PoemsExplore heartfelt hymns and poems that offer comfort and hope to the weary and humble, weaving sacred themes of sacrifice, resurrection, and faith into verses meant to uplift every…
Level B2PoetryHow to tell the Birds from the Flowers, and other Wood-cuts: A Revised Manual of Flornithology for BeginnersDelight in whimsical verses that playfully unravel the confusions between birds and flowers, blending nature’s wonders with humor and keen observation.
Level B2PoetryHow to Tell the Birds from the Flowers: A Manual of Flornithology for BeginnersPlayful verses and witty observations guide you through distinguishing birds from flowers, revealing nature’s charming quirks and surprising connections in a whimsical manual for c…
Level B2HistoricalHello, Boys!Poignant verses capture the spirit and sacrifice of soldiers and sailors during the Great War, offering heartfelt tributes from the battlefields and camps of France to the shores o…
Level B2AdventureHappy Days for Boys and GirlsStep into a charming old English garden where young Polly, guided by her wise grandmother, discovers the simple joys of nature, imagination, and family through apple seeds, playful…
Level B2PoetryHappy DaysCelebrate everyday joys and whimsical reflections in this lively collection of toasts and poems, where even the humble floor and elusive hope receive heartfelt tributes full of hum…
Level B2PoetryGrandma's MemoriesAn elderly grandmother drifts through memories of childhood, youth, and marriage as a gentle lullaby stirs the past, weaving a tender portrait of life's stages and the enduring bon…
Level B2PoetryGolden Moments: Bright Stories for Young FolksAt a beloved teacher's birthday celebration, a group of schoolgirls weave wreaths and share heartfelt moments, revealing kindness and friendship in simple acts.
Level B2PoetryGobolinks; or, Shadow Pictures for Young and OldDiscover the whimsical world of Gobolinks—mysterious inkblot creatures born from folded ink-spots on paper.
Level B2PoetryGinevraIn a gloomy English castle, young Lady Ginevra grows under the watchful protection of loyal guardians, destined for sorrow despite her gentle spirit and beauty.
Level B2PoetryGems of Poetry, for Girls and BoysCelebrate the joys of nature, childhood, and simple pleasures through a collection of charming poems that invite young readers to laugh, play, and appreciate the world around them.
Level B2PoetryGems Gathered in Haste: A New Year's Gift for Sunday SchoolsIn a spirited tale of quick thinking and teamwork, a determined group races against time to create a meaningful New Year’s gift for Sunday Schools.
Level B2PoetryFunny Little Socks: Being the Fourth BookEight-year-old Kitty embraces her new role as "Little Mother," caring for her siblings and managing the household while her mother is away.
Level B2PoetryFor Your Sweet Sake: PoemsExplore heartfelt verses that celebrate love, life, and perseverance through a collection of sincere and inspiring poems, praised for their natural expression and touching simplici…
Level B2PoetryFlower FablesBeneath a shimmering summer moon, fairies gather to share enchanting tales of love and courage, as they face the chilling threat of the Frost-King who threatens their floral world.
Level B2PoetryFlower Children: The Little Cousins of the Field and GardenDiscover a charming celebration of children and flowers, revealing their deep connection through tender poems and drawings that invite young hearts to see themselves as part of nat…
Level B2PoetryFishy-WinkleA mischievous trio of children escape to the seaside, where they meet Fishy-Winkle, a curious mer-baby longing to return to the sea.
Level B2PoetryFeline PhilosophyA once pampered cat faces abandonment, hunger, and despair, navigating the harsh streets and unexpected rescues while reflecting on loyalty, survival, and dignity in a world that n…
Level B2PoetryEight brand new bits of Christmas cheerCelebrate the spirit of the season with heartfelt verses that weave wishes of joy, friendship, and love, capturing the warmth and magic of Christmas through tender poetry and festi…
Level B2PoetryEidolaExplore a collection of evocative poems that delve into love, memory, and the ethereal presence of those who haunt our hearts, inviting readers to reflect on the delicate interplay…
Level B2PoetryDew Drops, Vol. 37, No. 18, May 3, 1914On a rainy May afternoon, young Francis learns to find joy within himself, inspired by a singing robin and his mother's gentle wisdom.
Level B2PoetryDame Trot and Her CatDame Trot’s gentle cat surprises her by preparing tea, keeping the house spotless, and even teaching the dog to dance—but her fondness for fashionable dress leads to a charming, mi…
Level B2HistoricalCountry Life in the Poetry of John ClareAmid the sweeping enclosures of 18th-century England, rural communities face upheaval as traditional farming lands are consolidated and fenced off, transforming small farmers and l…
Level B2PoetryChristmas Tales and Christmas VerseA young man named Norss sails across mysterious seas guided by a dream to find his bride, encountering magical beings and wondrous adventures that lead to the birth of a remarkable…
Level B2PoetryChristmas Stories: "Jest 'Fore Christmas" and "The Night Before Christmas"On the quiet night before Christmas, a jolly St.
Level B2PoetryChinese Mother Goose RhymesDiscover a vibrant collection of traditional Chinese nursery rhymes, where playful creatures, loving family moments, and everyday wonders come to life through charming verses and i…
Level B2HistoricalChatterbox Stories of Natural HistoryExplore the fascinating lives of animals from the majestic Golden Eagle to the playful American black bear, capturing their instincts, habitats, and tender bonds in vivid, engaging…
Level B2PoetryCanada, My Land; and Other Compositions in VerseCelebrate the vast beauty and resilient spirit of Canada through stirring verses that honor its landscapes, history, and proud heritage.
Level B2PoetryButtercup Gold, and Other StoriesStep into a world where the Little New Year and Mother Nature herself bring blessings, kindness, and the magic of changing seasons to life through heartfelt tales and gentle poems…