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 C1MysteryThe History of the Life of the Late Mr. Jonathan Wild the GreatJourney through the cunning exploits and complex schemes of Jonathan Wild, a man whose rise to “greatness” blurs the line between crime and honor in a world of intrigue, deception,…
Level C1RomanceThe History of the Lady Betty StairIn 1798, amid the turmoil of revolution and exile, Lady Betty Stair navigates a world of court intrigue, old rivalries, and forbidden passions at the haunted palace of Holyrood, wh…
Level C1HistoricalThe History of the Devil, As Well Ancient as Modern: In Two PartsExplore the true origins and cunning escapades of the Devil, revealing his ancient fall, ongoing battles with humanity, and surprising follies.
Level C1HistoricalThe History of Yiddish Literature in the Nineteenth CenturyExplore the rich and elusive world of nineteenth-century Yiddish literature through a journey across Europe’s libraries, bookstores, and conversations with its living writers, unco…![Cover of The History of Tom Thumb: To Which Are Added the Stories of the Cat and the Mouse and Fire! Fire! Burn Stick! by Henry [Editor] Altemus](https://dsx1pat3ljtul.cloudfront.net/books/da4jmkqe2hvc73bn0jb0.webp)
Level B2Children'sThe History of Tom Thumb: To Which Are Added the Stories of the Cat and the Mouse and Fire! Fire! Burn Stick!In a world where magic and fairies grant impossible wishes, a tiny boy no bigger than a thumb embarks on mischievous adventures, outwitting giants, animals, and even danger itself.
Level B2Children'sThe History of Tom Thumb and Other Stories.In the days of King Arthur, a tiny boy no bigger than a thumb embarks on extraordinary adventures, from outwitting giants to enchanting the royal court.
Level C1AdventureThe History of Thomas HickathriftIn the marshy Isle of Ely, a legendary brewer’s man named Thomas Hickathrift rises to heroic fame, shaping the wild fenlands and battling giants in a tale steeped in ancient folklo…
Level C1HistoricalThe History of Sir Richard WhittingtonExplore the true story behind the legendary Whittington and his Cat, separating myth from history as we uncover the real life and times of a man once believed to be a poor boy guid…
Level C1ClassicsThe History of Sir Charles Grandison, Volume 4 (of 7)Amidst formal visits, family trials, and delicate negotiations, Sir Charles Grandison navigates complex relationships and social expectations, while grappling with news of friends’…
Level B2Children'sThe History of Sandford and MertonTwo boys from very different worlds—Tommy Merton, spoiled and fragile from a life of luxury, and Harry Sandford, strong and kind from a humble farm—embark on a journey of growth, l…
Level C1ClassicsThe History of Samuel Titmarsh and the Great Hoggarty DiamondA young man’s holiday with his wealthy aunt turns mysterious when she gifts him a curious family locket rumored to hold the Great Hoggarty Diamond, sparking intrigue amid secrets,…
Level C1HistoricalThe History of Rome, Books 37 to the End: with the Epitomes and Fragments of the Lost BooksRoman generals cross into Asia to confront Antiochus, forging alliances and waging war that will reshape the balance of power.
Level C1HistoricalThe History of Rome, Books 27 to 36Amidst the brutal clashes of the Second Punic War, Roman generals and Hannibal's forces vie fiercely for control over rebellious cities, shifting fortunes in battles marked by cunn…
Level C1HistoricalThe History of Rome, Books 09 to 26In the shadow of the Caudine Forks, Roman legions face a cunning Samnite trap that tests their fate and the wrath of the gods.
Level C1HistoricalThe History of Rome, Books 01 to 08Follow Rome’s legendary origins from Aeneas’s arrival to Romulus’s founding of the city, as kings rise and fall amid wars, divine rites, and political intrigue that shape the birth…
Level C1HistoricalThe History of Roman Literature: From the Earliest Period to the Death of Marcus AureliusExplore the evolution of Roman literature from its earliest Latin roots through the influence of Greek culture, tracing epic poetry, comedy, tragedy, and satire amid Rome’s practic…
Level C1HistoricalThe History of Richard Raynal, SolitaryIn early 16th-century England, a devout Cambridge-educated hermit named Richard Raynal embarks on a spiritual journey marked by contemplation, royal encounters, and inner trials, a…
Level C1RomanceThe History of Pendennis, Volume 2: His Fortunes and Misfortunes, His Friends and His Greatest EnemyIn a world of restless youth and tangled loyalties, Mr.
Level C1HistoricalThe History of PendennisIn a candid portrait of Victorian society, a refined military man navigates the complexities of love, temptation, and social expectations in London’s elite clubs.
Level C1HistoricalThe History of Patient Grisel, 1619In a medieval tale explored through history and literature, Patient Griselda embodies unwavering obedience and patience amid relentless trials, challenging modern views on virtue a…
Level C1ClassicsThe History of Mr. PollyPlagued by indigestion and a deep sense of dissatisfaction, Mr.
Level C1ClassicsThe History of Miss Betsy ThoughtlessIn a genteel boarding school, young Betsy Thoughtless navigates friendship, secret romances, and the lessons of courtship as she becomes entwined in the clandestine love affairs of…
Level C1HistoricalThe History of Margaret Catchpole, a Suffolk GirlIn early 19th-century Suffolk, the extraordinary life of Margaret Catchpole unfolds, intertwined with the lives of a large brewing family and their remarkable household.
Level B2AdventureThe History of Little Peter, the Ship BoyIn a quiet hamlet, young Peter faces hardship as he cares for his ailing mother and tends their humble home, while his father’s turbulent seafaring past casts a shadow over their f…
Level B2AdventureThe History of Little King Pippin: With an Account of the Melancholy Death of Four Naughty Boys, Who were Devoured by Wild Beasts. And the Wonderful Delivery of Master Harry Harmless, by a Little White Horse.A poor but virtuous boy, Peter Pippin dreams of learning beyond his humble life.
Level B2Children'sThe History of Little Jack, a FoundlingAn old, disabled soldier living alone on a remote moor discovers a helpless infant abandoned in the cold.
Level C1PoetryThe History of Johnny Quæ Genus, the Little Foundling of the Late Doctor Syntax.: A Poem by the Author of the Three Tours.An orphan named Johnny Quæ Genus embarks on a lively journey through varied adventures, guided by wit and chance in a vivid, illustrated poetic tale blending humor and social satir…
Level C1ClassicsThe History of John BullAn honest tradesman named John Bull finds himself entangled in a costly lawsuit and political intrigues that mirror the turbulent public affairs of early 18th-century England.
Level C1Children'sThe History of InsectsDiscover the fascinating world of insects, from the giant elephant-beetle to the tiny flea, exploring their unique bodies, life cycles, and surprising roles in nature—all through v…
Level C1HistoricalThe History of Herodotus — Volume 2Explore the fierce struggles and complex customs of Thracian tribes as Persian forces, commanded by Megabazos, attempt to conquer the diverse peoples of Europe under King Dareios'…
Level C1HistoricalThe History of Herodotus — Volume 1Explore the origins of history and culture through vivid narratives and meticulous scholarship, revealing the diverse voices and events that shaped the ancient world.
Level C1HistoricalThe History of Henry Esmond, Esq., a Colonel in the Service of Her Majesty Queen AnneA colonel recounts his tumultuous life during Queen Anne’s reign, tracing his family’s legacy from Virginia plantations to the upheavals of early 18th-century England and America.
Level C1RomanceThe History of Emily MontagueAn adventurous lieutenant-colonel seeks a fresh start in the wild beauty of Canada, captivated by its untamed landscapes and promising new life.
Level C1RomanceThe History of Don Quixote, Volume 2, CompleteEmbark on the continued adventures of a nobleman turned delusional knight and his loyal squire as they encounter enchanted ladies, mysterious caves, and droll misadventures that bl…
Level C1RomanceThe History of Don Quixote de la ManchaA nobleman obsessed with chivalric romances sets out on a quest to revive knightly honor, armed with idealistic dreams and a rusty suit of armor.
Level C1ClassicsThe History of David GrieveA young boy tends sheep on a rugged English moorland farm, surrounded by wild beauty and the changing seasons.
Level C1FantasyThe History of Caliph VathekA pleasure-seeking Caliph indulges in opulent feasts and exotic extravagances, but his insatiable desires lead him into a dark, fantastical journey filled with wild Arabian wonders…
Level C1HistoricalThe History of "Punch"Delve into the meticulous history behind Punch, the iconic satirical magazine, as revealed through extensive research, rare documents, and firsthand accounts from its earliest cont…
Level C1AdventureThe History and Remarkable Life of the Truly Honourable Colonel Jacque, Commonly Called Colonel JackBorn a gentleman but raised by a pickpocket, Jacque’s life unfolds through theft, kidnapping to Virginia, and relentless pursuit of commerce and status.
Level C1ClassicsThe History and Records of the Elephant ClubA curious club embarks on a whimsical journey to witness the elusive elephant in all its glory, chronicling their quirky meetings, misadventures, and the eccentric characters they…
Level C1RomanceThe Historical Romances of Georg EbersDive into ancient Egypt’s rich tapestry of intrigue, love, and power, where historical monuments and timeless emotions intertwine, revealing the vibrant lives behind the Pharaohs’…
Level C1HistoricalThe Historical Nights' Entertainment: First SeriesDive into vividly reconstructed tales where historical mysteries and human passions collide, revealing bizarre events through meticulous research and carefully imagined dialogue th…
Level C1AdventureThe Hispaniola Plate (1683-1893)Set against the treacherous Silver Bank near San Domingo, this riveting adventure follows the perilous voyages, mutinies, and daring exploits surrounding Sir William Phips and his…
Level B2AdventureThe Hilltop Boys: A Story of School LifeTwo adventurous boys at Hilltop Academy race down a steep hill to meet arriving classmates, narrowly avoiding a mysterious newcomer standing in their path.
Level B2AdventureThe Hilltop Boys on the RiverA resourceful boy determined to join his friends on the river refuses handouts and sets out to build his own motorboat, turning scraps and a small engine into an adventure in ingen…
Level B1AdventureThe Hilltop Boys on Lost IslandThree adventurous boys from Hilltop Academy set sail on a grand steam yacht to explore the islands of the Spanish Main, facing seasickness, friendship, and the promise of discovery…
Level C1ClassicsThe Hills of Refuge: A NovelIn a stately home overlooking the state Capitol, a banker wrestles with the heavy burdens of his career and the troubled life of his younger brother, whose struggles with addiction…
Level C1ClassicsThe Hills of HinghamA contemplative journey unfolds on a modest hill in Hingham, where the author reflects on life, nature, and the quiet compromises between youthful dreams and middle-aged realities…
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.