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 C1ClassicsThe ArgonautsIn a dazzling mansion built by relentless toil, two men grapple with the extremes of wealth and neglect—one driven mad by duty, the other reduced to dependency by disregard for mon…
Level C1PoetryThe ArgonauticaEmbark on the epic voyage of Jason and the Argonauts as they navigate treacherous seas and face divine challenges in their quest for the Golden Fleece, weaving adventure with the t…
Level B2MysteryThe Arctic legionsIn the harsh Arctic wilderness, a tense standoff unfolds between Corporal Conroy and the cunning half-breed hunter Yeyik, as they navigate survival amid a relentless migration of m…
Level C1RomanceThe Arctic QueenIn the icy grip of the Arctic, a daring expedition seeks the lost Sir John Franklin, weaving a tale of courage and discovery where bravery meets the vast, unforgiving polar sea.
Level C1HistoricalThe Arbiter: A NovelIn a world where societal expectations shape every gesture, a spirited woman wrestles with love, duty, and the heavy silence of illness that confines her.
Level C1HistoricalThe Arawack Language of Guiana in its Linguistic and Ethnological RelationsExplore the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of the Arawack people of Guiana, whose peaceful ways and unique language offer insights into early migrations and the history of t…
Level C1ClassicsThe Aran IslandsDiscover the rugged beauty and haunting traditions of the Aran Islands through vivid tales of its people, language, and landscape, where ancient folklore and daily life intertwine…
Level C1Children'sThe Arabian Nights, Volume II of IVIn a bustling city near Great Tartary, a tailor and his wife face a deadly dilemma when a visiting musician dies suddenly in their home, sparking a night of frantic schemes to hide…
Level C1Children'sThe Arabian Nights, Volume I of IVStep into a world of enchanting tales where imagination meets moral lessons, revealing the customs and wonders of distant lands.
Level C1AdventureThe Arabian Nights, Volume 3 (of 4)In a kingdom ruled by two rival viziers, a quest begins to find a slave whose beauty is matched only by her wit and wisdom—one destined to captivate the king and challenge the cour…
Level C1Children'sThe Arabian Nights Entertainments - Volume 01A clever sultan faces a deadly dilemma, marrying a new bride each day only to lose her by morning—until the resourceful Sultaness of the Indies weaves a thousand and one enchanting…
Level C1Children'sThe Arabian Nights Entertainments - CompleteJourney through a realm of magic and adventure where kings, genies, and voyagers weave tales of wisdom, courage, and enchantment.
Level B2AdventureThe Arabian Nights EntertainmentsEnter a world of magic and mystery where kings, queens, genies, and enchanted creatures weave tales of adventure and intrigue, all framed by the captivating story of a sultan betra…
Level C1HistoricalThe Arab's Pledge: A Tale of Marocco in 1830In 1830 Morocco, amid breathtaking landscapes and harsh oppression, a disgraced nobleman's son entangles with a cunning soldier in a dangerous conspiracy against the Sultan.
Level B2Children'sThe April Baby's Book of Tunes: with the story of how they came to be writtenThree sisters named April, May, and June live in a snowy German forest where Easter arrives under a blanket of unexpected winter frost; as they knit mittens and play with their wor…
Level B2Children'sThe Apricot TreeIn a quiet village garden, a young boy’s apricot tree promises hope and hard-earned joy as he plans to use its fruit to bring comfort to his beloved grandmother—discover the simple…
Level C1MysteryThe Apple of DiscordA longstanding feud between two powerful families in an Ohio village threatens to erupt into new conflict when Colonel Kendrick suspects his rival, Peter Bolton, of plotting someth…
Level B1Children'sThe Apple Dumpling and Other Stories for Young Boys and GirlsIn a cozy woodland cottage, a little old woman bakes a magical apple dumpling while knitting a big blue stocking, encountering charming mishaps along the way.
Level B2HistoricalThe ApologySocrates faces trial with unwavering conviction, defending a life spent in pursuit of justice and truth while embracing death as preferable to a decline into senility.
Level C1PhilosophyThe Apologia and Florida of Apuleius of MadauraA philosopher and traveler from a wealthy Roman colony recounts his education, mystical initiations, and encounters with influential friends, culminating in his defense against acc…
Level B2ClassicsThe Ape, the Idiot & Other PeopleAn ape named Romulus escapes his circus cage and encounters the vast, bewildering freedom of the outside world, where curiosity and caution lead him to unexpected encounters beyond…
Level B2MysteryThe Apartment Next DoorIn the shadowed streets by the river, a young man with a secret is tailed by a mysterious pursuer, while nearby, a restless woman longs to play her part in a world at war—until the…
Level B2MysteryThe Apaches of New YorkDive into the gritty underworld of early 20th-century New York, where gangsters, corrupt politicians, and weary street musicians collide.
Level C1RomanceThe Antiquary — CompleteIn late 18th-century Scotland, an eccentric antiquary’s passion for history and superstition intertwines with local mysteries and vivid characters, revealing the rich, unvarnished…
Level B2AdventureThe Antelope Boy; or, Smoholler the Medicine Man: A Tale of Indian Adventure and MysterySurveyors and soldiers venture into Yakima territory, guided by an old hunter and accompanied by two spirited boys named Percy, while they face the dangers and mysteries of the wil…
Level B2ClassicsThe AnnesA spirited young girl discovers her unique calling: to lift others up, just as she tenderly helps a struggling beetle back on its feet.
Level C1Children'sThe Annals of the PoorAmid humble cottages, true faith shines brightest as the poor discover the power of divine grace in their lives.
Level C1ClassicsThe Annals of the Parish: Or, the Chronicle of Dalmailing During the Ministry of the Rev. Micah BalwhidderA devoted minister reflects on his lifelong service to the parish of Dalmailing, sharing heartfelt sermons, community struggles, and steadfast faith during a time of change and cha…
Level C1HistoricalThe Annals of the CakchiquelsUnearth the rich history and mythology of the Cakchiquels, a sophisticated indigenous nation of Guatemala, through the eyes of a native chronicler whose account preserves their lan…
Level B2Science FictionThe Animated PinupA pragmatic agent is pulled from his comfortable evening by an anxious illustrator whose mysterious troubles challenge his down-to-earth worldview, thrusting him into a strange, un…
Level B2FantasyThe Animals' RebellionIn a kingdom ruled by a lion king, the animals spark a secret rebellion led by a defiant tiger tired of tyranny.
Level B2Children'sThe Animals' Christmas TreeIn a magical forest gathering, wild and tame animals unite to create their own Christmas tree, inspired by the joy and kindness they’ve observed in human celebrations.
Level C1PoetryThe Anglican Friar, and the Fish which he Took by Hook and by Crook: A Comic LegendAn avid angler journeys to Ireland, captivated by its scenic rivers and the thrill of the catch.
Level C1FantasyThe Angels of Mons: The Bowmen and Other Legends of the WarAmid the horrors of war, tales emerge of spectral bowmen appearing on the battlefield to protect British soldiers, blending legend and reality in a haunting exploration of faith, c…
Level C1ClassicsThe Angel of the TenementIn a cramped tenement, a mysterious child named Angel appears, abandoned yet strangely confident, drawing a group of women into a web of compassion and curiosity as they seek to un…
Level C1RomanceThe Angel of the Gila: A Tale of ArizonaIn a rough Arizona mining camp where saloon laughter masks hostility, a determined schoolteacher faces scorn and defiance as she strives to bring education and hope to a lawless to…
Level C2PoetryThe Angel of Thought and Other Poems: Impressions from Old MastersDiscover a realm where timeless masterpieces inspire verses that illuminate the sacred, the sublime, and the mysteries of faith through vivid poetic impressions drawn from revered…
Level C1MysteryThe Angel of TerrorA man convicted of murder faces a life sentence, but doubts linger over the testimony that sealed his fate.
Level C1ClassicsThe Angel of PainIn the shimmering heat of a lush English garden, Philip Home contemplates the fleeting beauty of summer while his eccentric guests and mysterious acquaintances hint at secrets lurk…
Level C1HistoricalThe Angel of Lonesome Hill; A Story of a PresidentIn the remote settlement of Cold Friday, a mysterious couple living atop Lonesome Hill guards secrets that stir village curiosity and hope.
Level C1PoetryThe Angel of DeathExplore the profound reflections of life, death, and spirituality through majestic yet accessible verse.
Level C2PoetryThe Angel in the HouseA devoted poet seeks to capture the profound beauty of love and home, weaving heartfelt verses inspired by his beloved wife and the joys and duties of married life.
Level C1PoetryThe Angel in the CloudExplore heartfelt reflections and poignant verses that weave faith, memory, and nature into a poetic journey, revealing the intimate struggles and hopes of a 19th-century soul comm…
Level B2FantasyThe Angel and the Demon: A TaleIn a society shadowed by moral decay, a delicate mother struggles to find the perfect governess for her children, balancing high society demands with the need for true integrity.
Level B2ClassicsThe Angel and the Author, and OthersA weary Recording Angel reviews the author's self-proclaimed good deeds during the Christmas season, blending humor and reflection on human generosity and virtue.
Level B2Children'sThe Angel Over the Right Shoulder; Or, The Beginning of a New YearA busy mother vows to claim two hours each day for herself amid the chaos of household chores and lively children, embarking on an experiment to find balance, order, and personal f…
Level B1Children'sThe Angel Children: or, Stories from Cloud-LandTwo girls from very different worlds—one privileged, one poor—meet by chance and share their struggles with family and faith.
Level C1PhilosophyThe AngelA man named Joseph undergoes a profound transformation as unseen spiritual forces challenge the materialistic worldview, revealing the mysterious interplay between soul, morality,…
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.