CEFR B2 · Upper-intermediate
Read Upper-intermediate Classics in English (B2)
7164 books graded at CEFR B2 (upper-intermediate) — learn English by reading the stories worth reading at exactly your level. Tap any word for an instant translation, listen to the narration, and save the vocabulary you meet. Start with a free sample.
What are the best B2 books to read in English?
The best B2 books to read in English are well-known classics whose own language sits at that level — start with £19,000, Zula and Zoraida: A Romance of the Harem and the Great Sahara. Each is the complete book, labelled CEFR B2 (upper-intermediate), with tap-to-translate, narration and saved vocabulary, so you read a real story while building the English you actually meet in it.
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Level B2AdventureIn Savage Africa: Or, The adventures of Frank Baldwin from the Gold Coast to Zanzibar.A young boy's school days end abruptly when he receives a thrilling invitation to join his father's ship, embarking on a voyage from the Gold Coast to Zanzibar.
Level B2AdventureIn Quest of Gold; Or, Under the Whanga FallsTwo brothers face the threat of losing their beloved family run to a ruthless creditor eager to claim it all.
Level B2AdventureIn Paths of Peril: A Boy's Adventures in Nova ScotiaA resilient boy and his devoted aunt escape war-torn France to begin anew in wild Nova Scotia, where adventure and new alliances await amid untamed lands and indigenous tribes.
Level B2ClassicsIn Pastures NewAn American titan of industry, accustomed to commanding respect at home, finds himself lost and humbled in foreign lands, struggling to navigate strange languages and customs—from…
Level B2ClassicsIn Our TownIn a small Western town, the local newspaper office serves as the social hub, revealing intimate and often humorous details about its residents—from choir scandals to hidden debts—…
Level B2AdventureIn New Granada; Or, Heroes and PatriotsAmidst the lush landscapes of New Granada, a naval surgeon and his young ward face capture and peril after a hunting expedition turns deadly, sparking a daring struggle for freedom…
Level B2ClassicsIn Midsummer Days, and Other TalesIn a radiant Northern midsummer, a bedridden old woman views her world through magical, color-shifting windowpanes, while a dove’s heavenly song stirs hope among a struggling famil…
Level B2AdventureIn Kentucky with Daniel BooneA resolute hunter in colonial North Carolina confronts dwindling game and oppressive British rule, while hearing tales of a wild, untamed land beyond the Laurel Ridge—ripe for expl…
Level B2ClassicsIn Kali's Country: Tales from Sunny IndiaIn the shadow of Kali’s temple, a holy man completes a five-year vow of sacrifice, wrestling with inner turmoil despite outward piety.
Level B2MysteryIn JeopardyA distant cousin’s sudden death draws a Philadelphia lawyer to a secluded Maryland estate, where old family wounds and unexpected inheritances stir secrets and suspicions.
Level B2AdventureIn Hostile RedTwo young officers captured near Philadelphia find themselves caught in a dangerous game of deception during the Revolutionary War.
Level B2AdventureIn Honour's Cause: A Tale of the Days of George the FirstTwo young courtiers navigate the stiff, formal life of the royal palace amid whispers of loyalty and power in the days of George the First, craving freedom beyond the heavy Dutch e…
Level B2Children'sIn HomespunIn a quiet English village, a spirited young girl takes on the task of caring for her cantankerous Aunt Maria, whose sprained ankle sets the stage for family secrets, rivalries, an…
Level B2ClassicsIn His StepsA devoted minister wrestles with how to truly follow Christ's example when a desperate stranger challenges his faith and compassion, setting a profound journey of sacrifice and mor…
Level B2ClassicsIn Happy ValleyIn a rugged mountain valley, a fiercely independent young woman clashes with a shy new schoolteacher who brings new ways and challenges to their tight-knit community.
Level B2AdventureIn Greek Waters: A Story of the Grecian War of IndependenceA young scholar, captivated by his Greek heritage and fueled by a passion for his ancestral land, embarks on a journey into the turbulent early years of the Greek War of Independen…
Level B2MysteryIn Friendship's GuiseIn the vibrant streets of 1892 Paris, artist Jack Clare's promise of a joyful day unravels with the sudden disappearance of a wealthy collector, leaving behind a mysterious duplica…
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 B2AdventureIn Far Bolivia: A Story of a Strange Wild LandDeep in the uncharted wilderness of Bolivia, explorers face mysterious tribes and untamed landscapes beyond civilization’s reach.
Level B2FantasyIn Camp With A Tin SoldierA curious boy hears the distant beat of soldiers' drums and discovers his favorite picture—a quiet country lane—beginning to come alive with mysterious movement.
Level B2Children'sIn Blue Creek CañonIn a smoky mountain town, a lively group of children race across a frozen pond, eagerly awaiting the arrival of their mysterious cousin Charlie MacGregor, whose presence promises t…
Level B2ClassicsIn Beaver Cove and ElsewhereIn a lively mountain settlement, a fierce rivalry ignites between two suitors vying for the spirited and captivating Armindy Hudgins, whose charm and daring set the stage for tensi…
Level B2ClassicsIn Bad Company, and other storiesBill Hardwick, a hardworking and skilled Australian farmer, strives to build a prosperous life with his capable wife Jenny on their rugged land.
Level B2PoetryImpertinent PoemsWitty and reflective poems tackle everyday struggles, social quirks, and the human spirit with a playful yet profound voice.
Level B2Science FictionIf at First You Don't...In a future where satellites are relics of a bygone era, a historic orbital satellite faces destruction, sparking fierce political debates about preservation versus progress.
Level B2ClassicsIf Any Man SinIn a mist-shrouded city, a disgraced man haunted by his past secretly follows a woman whose voice stirs deep emotions within him, forcing him to confront memories of disgrace and a…
Level B2ClassicsIdle Ideas in 1905Wry observations on social awkwardness and human nature unfold at a gathering where introductions and polite conversation reveal the quirks of societal expectations.
Level B2ClassicsIdealia, a Utopian Dream; or, ResthavenA chance visit to a serene country hamlet reveals a hidden utopia where nature and thoughtful design invite rest and reflection.
Level B2Children'sIda's new shoesA lively little girl named Ida struggles with her temper while showing off her new shoes, all under the watchful eyes of her ailing mother and caring family.
Level B2ClassicsI.N.R.I.: A prisoner's Story of the CrossIn a city gripped by fear and unrest, a condemned prisoner awaits his fate amid a crowd divided by judgment and sympathy.
Level B2ClassicsI've Been Thinking; or, the Secret of SuccessTwo brothers wrestle with the challenge of turning their bountiful harvest into profit in a struggling rural town.
Level B2MysteryI SpyAmid the looming threat of German espionage during World War I, a young British officer grapples with loyalty, love, and the shadows of secret plots that could topple England from…
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 B2AdventureHurrah for New England!: Or, The Virginia Boy's VacationA reluctant Virginian sets sail on a rugged New England fishing schooner to cure his health, accompanied by his adventurous cousin who discovers the charm and independence of coast…
Level B2AdventureHunting the Skipper: The Cruise of the "Seafowl" SloopTwo young midshipmen aboard H.
Level B2Children'sHunter's MarjoryA lonely girl burdened by secrets and denial finds an unexpected friendship in new neighbors who offer kindness and understanding.
Level B2AdventureHunter Quatermain's StoryWhen a mysterious treasure of diamonds hidden deep in Africa sparks curiosity and envy, the legendary hunter Allan Quatermain arrives with tales of danger, survival, and adventure…
Level B2ClassicsHumorous Masterpieces from American LiteratureOld friends reunite and reminisce about a quirky 1845 summer society filled with eccentric characters, idealistic philosophies, and humorous adventures.
Level B2ClassicsHow to write photoplaysUnlock the secrets of crafting compelling silent film scripts with clear, practical guidance on plot development, character action, and cinematic techniques essential for successfu…
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 B2ClassicsHow to become an actorDiscover practical guidance on acting, stage management, and creating theatrical effects at home, including how to rig a stage, make scenery, and produce sound and lighting effects…
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 B2ClassicsHow to Solve Conundrums: Containing All the Leading Conundrums of the Day, Amusing Riddles, Curious Catches, and Witty SayingsDive into a collection of witty riddles, amusing conundrums, and clever wordplays that challenge your mind and entertain with puns and playful twists on language.
Level B2ClassicsHow to Cook HusbandsDiscover witty domestic advice disguised as recipes for managing husbands and family life, blending humor and heartfelt reflection on marriage’s challenges and charms.
Level B2Children'sHow the Fairy Violet Lost and Won Her WingsA fairy loses her wings and embarks on a perilous journey to the fiery kingdom to reclaim them, only to discover that new wings may bring unintended harm to the world she loves.
Level B2HistoricalHow The Redoubt Was Taken: 1896A young soldier faces his first battle at the ominous redoubt of Cheverino, where superstition and deadly fire test his courage and resolve amid the chaos of war.
Level B2ClassicsHow The Raven Died: 1902, From "Wolfville Nights"In a rugged frontier town, tales unfold of Native American visitors, enigmatic scouts, and the elusive Old Jeffords, whose eerie hymns and mysterious past blur the line between wil…
Level B2AdventureHow Sammy Went to Coral-LandDive into the enchanting underwater world with Sammy, a proud young salmon, as he embarks on a wondrous adventure through coral reefs, meeting fascinating sea creatures and discove…