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 B2AdventureQueen of the Dawn: A Love Tale of Old EgyptIn a land torn by war, an infant princess named Nefra is hidden from the conquerors who demand her surrender, while mysterious divine forces surround her birth, hinting at a destin…
Level B2Children'sQueen HildegardeA delicate, discontented fifteen-year-old girl named Hilda seems in need of a change as her parents debate where she might find health and happiness.
Level B2Children'sQueechyA spirited young girl and her cheerful grandfather set off on a rustic autumn outing, finding joy in simple pleasures despite worn equipment and quiet worries.
Level B2Children'sPussy MeowFollow the heartfelt tale of Pussy Meow, a cat who shares her joys and sorrows, revealing the misunderstood life of felines and inspiring kindness toward our silent companions.
Level B2RomancePurple SpringsOn a cold day before a long-anticipated March 1st, Pearl Watson faces a momentous decision that has shaped her hopes and dreams for three years.
Level B2FantasyPuck of Pook's HillTwo children’s midsummer play awakens the mischievous Puck, who invites them on a magical journey through England’s ancient past, where history and legend come alive beneath the hi…
Level B2Science FictionPsychotennis, Anyone?In a future where telekinesis revolutionizes sports, a high-stakes psychotennis match turns deadly as players wield their minds against each other in a dangerous battle for control…
Level B2HistoricalPsycheIn ancient Rome, young Gannon rises from humble beginnings to become a trusted secretary to powerful figures, navigating intrigue and ambition in a world where loyalty and danger i…
Level B2Children'sPsycheHigh atop a mountain, a lonely princess with delicate, jewel-streaked wings longs to escape her vast castle and soar beyond the endless horizons.
Level B2Children'sPrudy Keeping HouseFour young siblings face a snowy day with curiosity and kindness, while their aunt must leave to care for a sick relative—leaving Prudy eager to take charge and keep the grand hous…
Level B2ClassicsProud LadyIn a quiet town shadowed by war's aftermath, Mary Lavinia navigates the tense return of soldiers and the storm of emotions that follow, caught between duty, family strife, and a st…
Level B2Children'sProfilesA thoughtful young woman embarks on her first solo trip, urged by her pastor to keep her "hands clean" in more ways than one.
Level B2ClassicsProfessor Tim & Paul TwyningIn a sunlit Irish farmhouse, Peggy and Hugh confront the shattering end of their love amid looming poverty and an impending auction, weaving a tale of heartbreak, pride, and the bi…
Level B2ClassicsProbable SonsAn unexpected orphan niece arrives to disrupt the bachelor life of Sir Edward, who must navigate the challenges of guardianship, society’s expectations, and a fragile child’s quiet…
Level B2RomancePrize of the airA daring pilot with a revoked license agrees to fly a banker and his spirited daughter across the country, navigating risky skies and unexpected tensions.
Level B2ClassicsPrivate Spud TamsonA rough but spirited recruit joins the quirky Glesca Mileeshy militia, facing the challenges of military life with humor and heart.
Level B2PoetryPrison PoetryImprisoned yet unbroken, a poet’s soul transcends cold bars, voicing the raw, unfiltered emotions and hopes of those confined.
Level B2HistoricalPrinceton StoriesAt Princeton in the late 19th century, fierce rivalry ignites during the infamous Cane Spree, a wild, midnight campus tradition where freshmen and sophomores battle for honor amid…
Level B2RomancePrincess ZaraA young princess arrives in New York, cloaked in mystery and commanding respect with her regal presence and retinue.
Level B2Children'sPrincess Sukey: The story of a pigeon and her human friendsWhen a sickly pigeon chick is rejected by its own family, a kind-hearted boy named Titus takes her in, sparking an unusual friendship filled with care and adventure amid the challe…
Level B2Children'sPrincess Sarah, and Other StoriesAn orphaned girl, sheltered from the noisy city street, faces a sudden change when her late father's letter brings a mysterious aunt to her humble home—offering hope, kindness, and…
Level B2Children'sPrincess Polly's Gay WinterIn a charming town called Avondale, young Rose Atherton moves into a grand new home beside her friend Polly and her elegant cat.
Level B2Children'sPrincess Polly At PlayPrincess Polly and her friends eagerly anticipate a summer of seaside adventures, sailing, and mystery at Cliffmore.
Level B2RomancePrincess Kiku: A Japanese Romance. A Play for GirlsIn a delicate Japanese garden, Princess Kiku faces mysterious curses and misunderstandings fueled by a cunning rival’s dark magic.
Level B2HistoricalPrincess Belle-EtoileThree radiant siblings, born with stars on their foreheads and jewels in their hair, are set adrift by jealous relatives but saved by a corsair's family.
Level B2RomancePrince or Chauffeur? A Story of NewportA naval lieutenant's chance encounter on a midnight train sparks intrigue as he crosses paths with a spirited young woman and her mother, setting the stage for a tale of mistaken i…
Level B2FantasyPrince Ricardo of Pantouflia: Being the Adventures of Prince Prigio's SonIn a kingdom where fairy gifts shape destinies, Prince Ricardo defies expectations by shunning books and chasing wild adventures, much to his clever father King Prigio’s concern.
Level B2FantasyPrince Prigio: From "His Own Fairy Book"In the whimsical kingdom of Pantouflia, where ancient legends awaken and dragons turn into princesses with a kiss, a royal baby boy is born amid skepticism about fairies and magic,…
Level B2AdventurePrince Jan, St. BernardIn the snowy Alps, young St.
Level B2ClassicsPrince FortunatusAmid the dazzling world of London’s theatre, a curious matron and her brother are drawn backstage to uncover the secrets of stagecraft and high society’s hidden dramas.
Level B2AdventurePrince Dusty: A Story of the Oil RegionsTwelve-year-old Arthur, teased and outcast by his cousins, embarks on a daring adventure with his cousin Cynthia as they imagine themselves a prince and princess exploring a world…
Level B2PoetryPretty Verses for All Good Children: In Words of One, Two, and Three SyllablesGentle tales and simple verses teach young readers the value of honesty, kindness, and the beauty found in everyday life—using only words of one, two, and three syllables to deligh…
Level B2RomancePretty Madcap Dorothy; Or, How She Won a LoverIn a bustling book-bindery, young Dorothy Glenn dares to believe fate will bring her true love despite the hardships of working life.
Level B2RomancePretty Geraldine, the New York Salesgirl; or, Wedded to Her ChoiceIn the bustling heart of New York, a stunning salesgirl with starry eyes and a proud spirit stands at the crossroads of fate, where love and choice intertwine in a world of ambitio…
Level B2Science FictionPreferred RiskIn a world where a powerful Company controls every risk and weapon, an Adjuster arrives in Naples amid sudden, tense security measures and an urgent manhunt.
Level B2Children'sPrecepts in Practice; or, Stories Illustrating the ProverbsOn a frozen lake, two brothers reveal contrasting paths: one carefree and defiant, the other patient and devoted, as they navigate the challenges of family duty and the wisdom of h…
Level B2ClassicsPrairie FolksOn the vast, untamed prairie, settlers battle relentless bugs, harsh weather, and dubious traveling salesmen peddling patent medicines—capturing the grit and pioneer spirit behind…
Level B2ClassicsPractical recitationsSharpen reading and speaking skills with carefully selected recitations and exercises designed for classroom use, holidays, and special occasions.
Level B2ClassicsPotash and Perlmutter Settle ThingsTwo garment manufacturers navigate post-war challenges, strikes, and fashion trends as they debate who should brave Paris to secure the latest styles, humorously capturing their st…
Level B2ClassicsPotash & Perlmutter: Their Copartnership Ventures and AdventuresAbe Potash, weary of failed partnerships, navigates the tough cloak and suit business with sharp wit and skepticism.
Level B2ClassicsPost-Impressions: An Irresponsible ChronicleStep into a world where the stage boldly exposes the truths of steam engines, tariffs, and society’s hidden corners, challenging conventions with unflinching realism and sharp wit…
Level B2AdventurePost HasteIn a rugged Irish coastal village, young Philip Maylands idolizes the daring yet troubled George Aspel, whose Viking heritage fuels dreams of adventure and freedom amidst harsh sea…
Level B2AdventurePorto Bello goldA young man navigates secretive plots and pirate threats in colonial New York, where adventure calls from both sea and wilderness.
Level B2RomancePortia; Or, By Passions RockedIn a grand old estate, lively Dulcinea welcomes her weary cousin Portia into a world of charmingly eccentric relatives, tangled passions, and whispered secrets—where love and misch…
Level B2ClassicsPoppy: The Story of a South African GirlA young girl named Poppy endures harsh chores and hunger under her aunt’s strict rule in South Africa, escaping into vivid daydreams of love and happiness.
Level B2Children'sPop-Guns: One Serious and One FunnyJoin a lively group of children as they become the spirited "Pop-gun Children," learning valuable lessons about kindness and good habits through playful tales filled with warmth an…
Level B2Children'sPoor and Proud; Or, The Fortunes of Katy Redburn: A Story for Young FolksIn a struggling coastal town, young Katy Redburn faces poverty and pride with courage and kindness as she seeks to care for her sick mother and navigate the challenges of childhood…
Level B2Children'sPoor Blossom: The Story of a HorseBorn into a world where horses serve man, a young colt learns early lessons about kindness, duty, and the complex relationship between master and beast.
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.