Poetry
Read Poetry Classics in English
184 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 The Milkmaid: R. Caldecott's Picture Books, The Military Adventures of Johnny Newcome: With an Account of his Campaign on the Peninsula and in Pall Mall and The Middle English Poem, Erthe Upon Erthe. 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 B2PoetryPerverted Proverbs: A Manual of Immorals for the ManyWitty and irreverent verses twist familiar proverbs into sharp, humorous insights on human folly and vice.
Level B2PoetryPansy's Sunday BookTwo childhood friends, Robert and Claire, explore their differing views on circuses during a summer by the sea, revealing how upbringing and personal beliefs shape their experience…
Level B2PoetryPages for Laughing EyesDiscover a charming collection of poems and stories that capture the wonder of childhood, the beauty of nature, and the small joys of everyday life, from playful animals to heartfe…
Level B2PoetryOur Little Ones and The Nursery, Vol. V, No. 9, July 1885A mischievous coati-mondi named Nasna, with a long inquisitive nose and a bushy ringed tail, explores her lively household, stirring up trouble and curiosity in this charming colle…
Level B2AdventureOur Boys: Entertaining Stories by Popular AuthorsYoung readers embark on enchanting adventures filled with imaginative tales, from a boy crafting a magical cat-tail arrow to the mysterious origins of Christmas presents in a conve…
Level B2PoetryOn the Tree TopA miller’s daughter faces a deadly challenge: to spin straw into gold by sunrise or lose her life.
Level B2HistoricalOn PatrolStep aboard the Duty Steam Boat and navigate the strict codes of naval protocol, where every letter and order carries weight and the chain of command dictates life on patrol.
Level B2PoetryOlive Leaves; Or, Sketches of CharacterA young boy’s secret defiance leads him to a perilous swim in a swift river, where danger and unexpected rescue by strangers test his courage and faith.
Level B2PoetryOklahoma SunshineExperience the heartfelt reflections and witty observations of everyday life in early Oklahoma, where humor, philosophy, and the simple joys of humanity shine through verse and pro…
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 B2PoetryNight Fall in the Ti-TreeStep into a tranquil world where night descends softly upon the ti-tree, captured through delicate woodcuts and poetic whispers that invite reflection and wonder under the fading l…
Level B2RomanceNancy MacIntyre: A Tale of the PrairiesOn the vast prairie, a shy farmer wrestles with newfound feelings for Nancy MacIntyre, whose arrival stirs jealousy, rivalry, and tender moments.
Level B2PoetryMy Flower-pot: Child's Picture BookDiscover the simple wonder of flowers through charming verses and illustrations, inviting young readers to explore nature’s beauty and the stories behind each bloom.
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…