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 B2PoetryBird Children: The Little Playmates of the Flower ChildrenDiscover the enchanting world where birds become playful companions to the Flower Children, bringing nature’s melodies and magic to life through charming verses and tender reflecti…
PoetryBeyond the Hills of DreamExplore a rich tapestry of nature, memory, and myth through evocative verses that journey from serene landscapes to profound human emotions, blending personal loss with timeless re…
Level C1PoetryBertha's Christmas Vision: An Autumn SheafIn a weather-beaten house lives Martin Kendrick, a miser whose bitterness and solitude grow after tragic losses and his daughter's estrangement.
Level C1HistoricalBeowulf: An Introduction to the Study of the Poem with a Discussion of the Stories of Offa and FinnDelve into the origins and historical context of the epic Beowulf, exploring its manuscript, royal genealogies, and legendary Scandinavian stories through a scholarly lens that bri…
Level C1PoetryBeowulf: An Anglo-Saxon Epic PoemIn a kingdom terrorized by the monstrous Grendel, a heroic warrior named Beowulf sails to aid King Hrothgar, confronting ancient evils in a saga of courage, loyalty, and legendary…
Level C2PoetryBeowulfIn a realm of ancient Danish kings, a monstrous terror named Grendel haunts the grand hall of Heorot, wreaking havoc and despair.
Level C1PoetryBennie and the TigerA young English boy in colonial India faces a perilous encounter when a tiger snatches him from his home, testing his innocence and trust amid looming danger.
Level C2PoetryBehind the Arras: A Book of the UnseenAn introspective wanderer explores an old house filled with unseen spirits and shifting shadows, where ghostly figures and mysterious tapestries hint at secret histories and the el…
Level C1PoetryBees in Amber: A Little Book of Thoughtful VerseExplore thoughtful, reflective verses that capture timeless ideas and spiritual wisdom, offering comfort and inspiration through poetic expressions of faith, hope, and the journey…
Level C2HistoricalBeechenbrook: A Rhyme of the WarAmid the turmoil of the Civil War, this poignant poetic tribute honors the sacrifices and enduring grief of Southern women, weaving sonnets and lays that reflect on loss, valor, an…
PoetryBeauties of TennysonDive into a rich collection of stirring poems that explore love, loss, valor, and nature’s enduring beauty through vivid imagery and timeless themes.
Level C1PoetryBeadle's Dime National Speaker, Embodying Gems of Oratory and Wit, Particularly Adapted to American Schools and FiresidesA treasury of powerful speeches and stirring verses designed for American schools and homes, blending serious and humorous pieces to inspire, instruct, and entertain readers of all…
Level C2PoetryBay: A Book of PoemsImmerse yourself in vivid scenes where soldiers parade, towns drift to sleep, and trains rush by, capturing moments of tension, beauty, and longing as life unfolds beneath shifting…
Level C1PoetryBay of Seven Islands, and other poems: Part 7 From Volume I of The Works of John Greenleaf WhittierA young skipper braves icy northern seas to the remote Seven Islands Bay, where forbidden love blooms between him and a fisherman's daughter amid harsh coastal traditions and jealo…
Level C2PoetryBaudelaire: His Prose and PoetryExplore the dark beauty and haunting visions of a soul restless in its quest for meaning, love, and peace amid sin and sorrow.
Level C1HistoricalBattle-Pieces and Aspects of the WarPoignant verses and reflections chart the turmoil and trials of the American Civil War, capturing the clash of convictions and the relentless march of battles from Manassas to Gett…
Level C2PoetryBase-ball BalladsStep into the lively world of baseball through spirited poems that capture the thrills, dreams, and quirks of the game—from heroic hits and fan antics to the bittersweet fate of Mu…
Level B2PoetryBarrack-room balladsIn the barracks and battlefields, soldiers confront harsh discipline, bitter truths, and fierce respect for foes, revealing the raw realities of military life with gritty verse and…
Level C1PoetryBarclay of Ury, and other poems: Part 3 From Volume I of The Works of John Greenleaf WhittierFollow the dignified Barclay of Ury, a venerable soldier turned Quaker, as he faces relentless persecution with unwavering faith and patience, embodying the struggle between honor,…
Level C2PoetryBan and Arriere Ban: A Rally of Fugitive RhymesImmerse yourself in a stirring collection of fugitive rhymes that rally voices from forgotten times—ballads, odes, and poetic portraits that evoke history, romance, and legend thro…
Level C1PoetryBallads, Founded on Anecdotes Relating to AnimalsLoyal to a fault, Fido the dog embodies true friendship and bravery, risking all to protect his beloved master from hidden dangers.
Level C1PoetryBallads of Scottish Tradition and Romance: Popular Ballads of the Olden Times - Third SeriesDive into the rich tapestry of Scottish history and romance through spirited ballads that blend tradition, mystery, and legend.
Level C1PoetryBallads of Romance and Chivalry: Popular Ballads of the Olden Times - First SeriesImmerse yourself in ancient oral traditions where timeless tales of romance and chivalry come alive through stirring ballads passed down across generations in England and Scotland.
Level C2PoetryBallads of Robin Hood and other Outlaws: Popular Ballads of the Olden Times - Fourth SeriesStep into the world beneath the Hawthorne tree, where tales of Robin Hood and legendary outlaws unfold—heroes who champion the poor, challenge authority, and embody the spirit of E…
Level B2PoetryBallads of Peace in WarAmid the fog of war and the steadfast glow of love, brave hearts face separation and sacrifice.
Level C1PoetryBallads of Mystery and Miracle and Fyttes of Mirth: Popular Ballads of the Olden Times - Second SeriesDelve into a captivating collection of ballads steeped in superstition, the supernatural, sacred origins, riddles, and mirth, revealing haunting tales and lyrical mysteries from th…
PoetryBallads of Lost Haven: A Book of the SeaDive into a vivid collection of sea-themed poems that evoke the mysteries, legends, and rugged life of coastal towns, capturing the spirit of sailors, storms, and maritime lore on…
PoetryBallads of BraveryDive into stirring ballads and vivid illustrations that celebrate heroic deeds, timeless legends, and moments of courage from history and myth, capturing the spirit of bravery thro…
Level C1PoetryBallads of BooksCelebrate the magic and mystery of books through a rich collection of poems honoring their beauty, rarity, and the joy they bring to bibliophiles.
Level C1PoetryBallads of BeautyExplore the delicate beauty and tender emotions of love, nature, and life’s fleeting moments through a collection of vivid, heartfelt ballads and lyrical poems.
Level C1PoetryBallads of American braveryExplore stirring poems that celebrate verified acts of American valor, from Paul Revere’s legendary ride to heroic battles and unsung heroes, capturing the spirit of bravery that r…
Level C1PoetryBallads from the Danish and Original VersesDive into haunting tales and ancient legends brought to life through faithful translations of Danish ballads and original verses, weaving a tapestry of kings, trolls, and timeless…
Level C2PoetryBallads and Poems of Tragic LifeExplore haunting legends and poetic experiments that delve into faith, temptation, and heroic struggles, as ancient tales and metrical innovations bring tragic life vividly to vers…
Level C1HistoricalBallads and Other PoemsExperience the fiery spirit and pivotal moments that ignited the American Revolution through vivid ballads capturing the struggles, ideals, and voices of colonial resistance agains…
Level C1PoetryBallads and Lyrics of Old France, with Other PoemsDiscover a rich tapestry of French lyric poetry, from medieval ballads to Renaissance sonnets, capturing love, loss, and timeless beauty through the voices of masters like Villon,…
Level C1PoetryBalladsImmerse yourself in vivid legends of Tahiti and the West Highlands, where heroes, treachery, and ancient songs intertwine.
Level C1HistoricalBalladsStep into the vivid tales of old Pierre, a seasoned drummer recounting generations of military history, battles, and shifting fortunes across Europe and America, where honor clashe…
Level C2PoetryBallades and Verses VainDive into a rich collection of ballades and verses weaving timeless themes—from ancient empires and literary fame to delicate portraits of nature and love—offering lyrical journeys…
Level C1HistoricalBallades and Rondeaus, Chants Royal, Sestinas, Villanelles, etc.Explore the enchanting world of traditional fixed-form poetry, from ballades to villanelles, as this anthology showcases the revival and artistry of old French rhythms adapted into…
Level C2PoetryBallades & Rhymes from Ballades in Blue China and Rhymes a la ModeExplore a rich collection of ballads and rhymes that revive an ancient French poetic form with playful wit and timeless themes, from haunting midnight forests to the whimsical char…
Level A2AdventureBallad of the Lost HareA mischievous hare flees his scolding family, racing through fields and forests to escape capture and find freedom.
Level C1PoetryBallad BookDive into the enchanting world of ancient ballads where superstition, tradition, and romance intertwine in rugged language and haunting refrains, inviting readers to discover the r…![Cover of Babylonian and Assyrian Literature by Epiphanius etc.] Wilson](https://dsx1pat3ljtul.cloudfront.net/books/dagil34up3dc73d99be0.webp)
Level C1PoetryBabylonian and Assyrian LiteratureUnearth the ancient world of Assyria and Babylonia through their enduring cuneiform tablets, revealing epic poems, hymns, and royal inscriptions that illuminate a civilization olde…
Level B2PoetryBaby ChatterboxDelight in the charming tales of children’s adventures, playful pets, and unexpected visitors like a curious canary seeking a new home.
Level A2PoetryBab Ballads and Savoy SongsDive into a whimsical collection of witty and charming verses that cleverly blend satire and humor, offering sharp social commentary through lively ballads and songs.
Level C2RomanceAxel Thordson and Fair Valborg: a balladIn a world of noble courts and secret loves, Sir Axel Thordson's heart is bound to Valborg, a maiden raised in cloister and courtly grace.
Level C1PoetryAwd Isaac, The Steeple Chase, and Other Poems: With a glossary of the Yorkshire DialectExplore heartfelt poems rooted in Yorkshire life and dialect, blending local tales with moral reflections and spiritual grace.
Level C1HistoricalAvril: Being Essays on the Poetry of the French RenaissanceExplore the vivid poetry of the French Renaissance through essays that reveal the cultural and historical ties shaping Europe’s literary heritage, as England and France begin to re…
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.