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 B2ClassicsEspecially dance hall womenIn a rowdy dance hall where debts and tempers flare, Long Jim Briggs steps into danger to rescue the fiery Rosie from a violent clash with the ruthless manager.
Level B2Science FictionEscape From PlutoExiled to Pluto’s frozen wasteland for his tyrannical ambitions, Marcius Kemble plots a fiery comeback while mysterious native beings monitor his every move—setting the stage for a…
Level B2AdventureErskine Dale—PioneerIn a remote wilderness fort, hunters and settlers brace against the dangers of the untamed frontier, where every dawn brings threats from both nature and lurking enemies.
Level B2ClassicsErnest Linwood; or, The Inner Life of the AuthorA shy twelve-year-old girl bravely reveals her hidden poetic talent before a harsh schoolmaster, facing public ridicule and personal doubt.
Level B2Children'sErnest Bracebridge: School DaysAt Grafton Hall, a distinguished school led by the respected and kind Doctor Carr, boys navigate the challenges of school life amid games, lessons, and camaraderie in a grand Eliza…
Level B2ClassicsErisIn a struggling farmstead where twenty years of hope for a son end with the birth of a daughter, a sudden illness casts a shadow over the family’s future, forcing a weary farmer to…
Level B2AdventureEric: or, Under the SeaYoung adventurer Eric embarks on a thrilling journey through Europe, exploring ancient castles and diving beneath the sea in armor, where he discovers sunken treasures and faces ch…
Level B2HistoricalEric, a waifIn a small village on the edge of Epping Forest, young Eric Hunter faces suspicion and isolation after his mother's mysterious death, as whispers of witchcraft and outsider fears s…
Level B2Science FictionEquation of DoomStranded on the harsh planet Irwadi after its government seizes control of interstellar transfers, pilot Jason Ramsey must navigate alien hostility and uncertain futures amid polit…
Level B2RomanceEnoch CraneIn a bustling apartment building, a spirited young architect navigates life’s challenges and unexpected connections, bringing warmth and vitality to those around him.
Level B2ClassicsEnglish ways and by-waysTwo young Americans navigate English life before the Great War, sharing vivid, humorous letters that reveal cultural quirks and heartfelt moments amid personal trials and unexpecte…
Level B2HistoricalEnglish Literature for Boys and GirlsExplore the rich evolution of storytelling, from ancient fireside tales of war to the refined literature shaped by monks and minstrels, revealing how stories reflect the changing l…
Level B2RomanceEnglefield Grange; or, Mary Armstrong's TroublesA young woman battles her fear of the sea as she embarks on a summer outing by the Solent, where unexpected encounters and social challenges await her at Englefield Grange.
Level B2Children'sEnemiesA proud boy struggles with the sting of poverty and family rejection after his mother is turned away by her wealthy father-in-law.
Level B2RomanceEndymionOn a warm August night in London, two old friends confront political turmoil and shifting alliances that threaten the future of England.
Level B2RomanceEnchantmentA playwright anxiously awaits the fate of his new play in New York when a mysterious, captivating woman whisks him away on a nighttime adventure, setting the stage for romance and…
Level B2AdventureEmpire BuildersTrapped by relentless winter snows, a determined railroad superintendent leads his crew in a desperate battle to keep a vital mountain rail line alive, fighting nature and corporat…
Level B2Children'sEmmy Lou: Her Book and HeartIn a bustling primer class, shy Emmy Lou struggles to catch up with her classmates until a mischievous boy’s playful challenge offers her a glimpse of friendship and courage in a w…
Level B2HistoricalEmily of New MoonIn a secluded house surrounded by birch trees, young Emily finds solace in nature, books, and her loyal pets as she navigates loneliness and mysterious moments called "the flash.
Level B2MysteryEmerson's Wife and Other Western StoriesIn the rugged West, Nick Ellhorn wakes drunk in a Santa Fe hotel room, drawn into a deadly mystery as the Dysert gang strikes again—murders, secrets, and danger threaten the lawles…
Level B2RomanceEm's husbandA young woman escapes the city’s chaos to a paradisiacal island, where she encounters a powerful, blind preacher whose presence captivates her and promises a life transformed by fa…
Level B2Children'sElsie's scholarshipThree girls compete for a coveted scholarship that promises to fund their education, but the pressure to succeed weighs heavily on Elsie, the eldest sibling who risks losing her ch…
Level B2Children'sElsie's childrenIn a loving nursery, the Travilla children eagerly welcome a new baby sister while grappling with their mother's illness.
Level B2AdventureElsie's Young Folks in Peace and WarSet sail along the coast of Maine with Elsie and her family, uncovering thrilling tales of early American history, Revolutionary battles, and daring sea adventures that shaped a yo…
Level B2Children'sElsie's WomanhoodAs a cherished young woman faces an unexpected marriage proposal to a much older family friend, her loved ones grapple with surprise, loyalty, and the challenge of honoring her hea…
Level B2Children'sElsie's Winter TripA newlywed couple settles into their charming new home, balancing early mornings, business duties, and family visits while discovering the joys and challenges of married life toget…
Level B2Children'sElsie's Widowhood: A Sequel to Elsie's ChildrenElsie faces the painful prospect of leaving her loving family to marry Lester Leland, who must soon depart for Italy.
Level B2HistoricalElsie's Vacation and After EventsA family faces the bittersweet challenge of separation as young Maxie leaves home, while his sisters find comfort in sharing daily life through letters.
Level B2HistoricalElsie's Journey on Inland WatersA family explores the dazzling exhibitions of a grand international fair, where young Elsie’s curiosity is sparked by a captivating painting of Joan of Arc.
Level B2Children'sElsie's Girlhood: A Sequel to "Elsie Dinsmore" and "Elsie's Holidays at Roselands"As Elsie and her family settle into a charming hotel for their summer stay, she faces the unexpected presence of the overly attentive Miss Stevens, whose flattery and unsolicited a…
Level B2HistoricalElsie's Friends at WoodburnOn a snowy Christmas Eve, friends gather at the grand Oaks estate, where family ties and festive spirits intertwine amid whispers of loss and new beginnings.
Level B2HistoricalElsie on the HudsonSet sail on the Hudson with Captain Raymond and his daughter Lucilla as they explore historic riverbanks aboard their charming yacht, the Dolphin, uncovering scenic beauty and fami…
Level B2Children'sElsie in the SouthAmid a fierce December storm, Lucilla and her family find warmth and joy indoors, embracing lessons, music, and heartfelt Christmas preparations.
Level B2Children'sElsie at the World's FairAs a close-knit family reunites to celebrate a Naval Academy commencement, they embark on a joyous journey filled with homecomings, heartfelt connections, and the charm of cherishe…
Level B2Children'sElsie at IonTwo young sisters welcome a weary friend burdened by sorrow into their warm home, offering comfort and kindness amid life's trials.
Level B2HistoricalElsie and the RaymondsIn a bustling city, compassionate siblings Lulu and Max encounter Susan, a desperate seamstress struggling to support her sick mother in a squalid alley.
Level B2Children'sElsie and Her NamesakesAs a wedding draws near at Woodburn, family and friends bustle with preparations and plans for a winter honeymoon at the beloved Viamede.
Level B2AdventureElsie and Her Loved OnesA warm family gathering sparks plans for a grand journey westward to California’s mild, inviting climate.
Level B2Children'sElsie Yachting with the RaymondsJoin Lulu, Max, and their father on a summer journey to Saratoga, exploring historic battlefields and scenic sights along the Hudson River while cherishing family bonds and the joy…
Level B2ClassicsElsie Marley, HoneyA pale, expressionless young woman leaves her sheltered life behind to live in a bustling New York boarding-house with her eccentric cousin, facing the challenges of independence a…
Level B2HistoricalElsie DinsmoreIn a charming old-schoolroom overlooking blooming gardens, young Elsie Dinsmore strives to master her lessons amidst playful sibling antics and strict expectations, revealing her g…
Level B2ClassicsElsieIn a sunlit house known as “Noah’s Ark,” a quack doctor thrives by treating those the official physician has abandoned, aided by Elsie—a spirited girl saved from blindness whose my…
Level B2Children'sElla, a little schoolgirl of the sixtiesAn eight-year-old girl embarks on a new adventure living at a seminary in the countryside, where she must navigate loneliness, new friendships, and the reopening of an old school f…
Level B2Children'sElla Clinton; or, By Their Fruits Ye Shall Know ThemAn affectionate but quick-tempered orphan struggles to find love and guidance under her strict Aunt Prudence’s care, longing for the warmth and patience of her late mother.
Level B2ClassicsElkan Lubliner, AmericanIn the bustling world of a Lower East Side garment shop, two partners grapple with loyalty, family ties, and the challenges of immigrant life as one debates sending money to bring…
Level B2Children'sElizabeth, Her FolksA young girl returns to her grandparents' countryside home after years away, struggling to adjust to their simple ways and unfamiliar customs.
Level B2Children'sElizabeth, Betsy, and Bess—schoolmatesThree schoolgirls—Elizabeth, Betsy, and Bess—navigate friendship, school adventures, and heartfelt moments under the inspiring guidance of their beloved teacher, Miss Jewett, as th…
Level B2HistoricalElizabeth's CampaignAmid the upheaval of war, Sir Henry Chicksands grapples with the challenges of enforcing agricultural reforms on reluctant farmers, while his daughter Beryl fears for the delicate…