The Library
Read Classic Literature in English
Learn English by reading the books worth reading. Every book is the complete text, labelled A2 to C2 — tap any word for an instant translation, hear natural audio narration, and save the vocabulary you meet as you go. Pick your level and start with a free sample.
Level C1Children'sEmilie the PeacemakerTwo girls escape a chilly spring evening for a primrose hunt by the sea, revealing the challenges of childhood and family dynamics through the eyes of Emilie, a patient governess,…
Level A2PoetryElson Grammar School Literature, book 4Dive into a curated collection of stirring poetry, legendary rides, and timeless American literature, designed to inspire rhythm, patriotism, and appreciation for classic voices fr…
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 C1Children'sElsie's New Relations: What They Did and How They Fared at Ion; A Sequel to Grandmother ElsieAs autumn paints the seaside in vivid hues, newlyweds Edward and Zoe navigate the joys and challenges of family life at Ion, discovering love, learning, and the bonds that tie them…
Level C1Children'sElsie's MotherhoodIn a post-Civil War Southern town, a loving family celebrates a decade of marriage amidst the innocence of childhood and the complexities of rebuilding a fractured society.
Level C1RomanceElsie's Kith and KinNewlyweds Zoe and Ned embrace the joys and challenges of married life on a sprawling plantation, finding love, companionship, and unexpected visitors to brighten their quiet days t…
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 C1HistoricalElsie at ViamedeAmid the tranquil beauty of Viamede, a family gathers to recount the stirring tale of Andrew Jackson’s relentless defense of New Orleans during the War of 1812, revealing courage,…
Level C1Children'sElsie at NantucketA family plans a summer retreat to Nantucket, a charming island with a rich whaling history and quaint villages.
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 C1Children'sElsie at HomeA weary mother arrives at her daughter's grand home, battling illness and a stormy journey, seeking comfort and reunion.
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 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 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 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 B2Children'sElizabeth Hobart at Exeter HallIn a gritty mining town clouded with coal dust and conflict, young Elizabeth Hobart grows up amidst the harsh realities of industrial life and the quiet comforts of a refined home,…
Level A2PoetryElfin songs of sunlandStep into a sunlit world of playful elves, joyful songs, and whimsical adventures where children dance, kite soar, and soap bubbles float, celebrating the magic of nature and imagi…
PoetryElfin LandStep into a whimsical world where fairies dance, mermaids charm, and flowers come alive in a collection of enchanting poems that celebrate nature’s magic and playful tales.
Level B2AdventureElam Storm, the Wolfer; Or, The Lost NuggetTrapped in a fierce blizzard, three rugged frontiersmen share tales by the fire, while the elusive Elam Storm prepares for his perilous mountain quest.
Level C2Children'sEight illustrations to Shakespeare's TempestDive into a magical world where sorcery, spirits, and star-crossed love unfold on a mysterious island, brought to life through eight enchanting illustrations capturing key moments…
Level A2Children'sEight Stories for IsabelDiscover simple tales and vivid illustrations that bring everyday objects and animals to life, teaching lessons through stories of steamboats, chairs, ships, and more in a charming…
Level B2AdventureEight Girls and a DogEight adventurous girls from the Blue Ribbon Cooking Club set off for a carefree two-week stay at a beach cottage, ready to tackle cooking, housekeeping, and the challenges of inde…
Level C1Children'sEight CousinsAfter losing her parents, young Rose finds herself in a gloomy old mansion under the care of her well-meaning but puzzled aunts.
Level B2Children'sEffie Maurice: Or What do I Love BestA thoughtful young girl grapples with understanding the true meaning of devotion, learning how misplaced love for wealth and status can become modern idols.
Level C1AdventureEdwy the Fair or the First Chronicle of Aescendune: A Tale of the Days of Saint DunstanIn a turbulent tenth-century England, the young King Edwy grapples with the powerful Church and its influential leaders, including the formidable monk Dunstan, as love and loyalty…
Level B2Children'sEdwin, the young rabbit fancier, and other storiesA tender-hearted boy’s desire for a pet rabbit turns into a lesson in care and responsibility when his enthusiasm fades and the challenges of keeping his new companion grow.
Level C1HistoricalEdward Fane's Rosebud (From "Twice Told Tales")An aging nurse reflects on her lost youth and a broken romance with Edward Fane, set against the harsh realities of class and mortality in colonial times.
Level A2AdventureEdward Buttoneye and His AdventuresJoin Edward Buttoneye as he embarks on whimsical adventures filled with charming characters and delightful escapades, perfect for young readers eager to explore a world of imaginat…
Level B2Children'sEdmund Dulac's Picture-Book for the French Red CrossA heartbroken prince, haunted by a dream of a mysterious princess, embarks on a magical quest with the enchanted bird Feng to find the woman who captivates his soul, leading him be…
Level B1Children'sEditha's Burglar: A Story for ChildrenA thoughtful young girl, left often to her own devices, becomes fascinated by the mysterious world of burglars through newspapers and books, sparking innocent curiosity and sympath…
Level B2Children'sEdith and Her Ayah, and Other StoriesIn colonial India, young Edith’s innocent prayers spark a heartfelt journey to bridge faiths as her family’s gentle example challenges the ayah’s deep-rooted beliefs and ancient cu…
Level B2AdventureEdgar the Ready: A Tale of the Third Edward's ReignAmidst the brutal clashes of Edward III’s reign, a young warrior embarks on a perilous journey through wild lands and fierce battles, facing savage foes and daring exploits that wi…
Why it works
Why read classics to learn English
Graded by real CEFR level
Every book is labelled B1, B2 or C1 so you can pick something that stretches you without overwhelming you.
Tap any word to translate
Touch a word or phrase to see it in your language instantly — no dictionary, no leaving the page.
Audio narration & pronunciation
Listen to clear, natural narration and read along to train your ear as well as your eye.
Vocabulary from your own reading
Save the words you meet; they become flashcards built from the books you actually read.
Questions
Learning English by reading
Reading exposes you to real grammar, vocabulary and phrasing in context — far more memorably than word lists. With instant translation and audio on every page, you stay in the story instead of stalling on unknown words, which is what builds fluency.
Choose a book one notch above where you feel comfortable: B1 if you read everyday English, B2 if you can follow longer articles, C1 for literary prose. You can always tap words you don’t know — a little stretch is exactly how you level up.
Sample chapters are free to read with no account. To read a full book — with tap-to-translate, audio narration and saved progress — you start your trial at quiz.nikmas.studio.
Not for sample chapters — they open with no signup. To read a whole book you start your trial at quiz.nikmas.studio, which keeps your vocabulary and place across devices.