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 C1RomancePearl of Pearl IslandIn the serene island of Sark, a tender love unfolds between Jock and the captivating Margaret Brandt, watched over by the wise Lady Elspeth.
Level B2Children'sPearl and PeriwinkleTwo children, raised as circus performers and orphaned, arrive at their reluctant Aunt Hetty’s home in a quiet village, sparking a clash between their lively past and her rigid exp…
Level C1RomancePeak's Island: A Romance of Buccaneer DaysShipwrecked and alone on a storm-lashed shore, young Anna Vyvyan awakens to a world of loss and survival in the treacherous days of buccaneers.
Level B2ClassicsPeak and Prairie: From a Colorado Sketch-bookIn the shadow of a majestic Rocky Mountain peak, a devoted mother braves a harsh new land, seeking health and hope for her ailing son.
Level C1MysteryPeachmonkA mysterious red lily and cryptic message thrust Lady Evelyn into a web of secrets and intrigue, prompting a daring investigation involving séances, secret rendezvous, and shadowy…
Level B2ClassicsPeach Blossom Shangri-la: Tao Hua Yuan JiA fisherman stumbles upon a hidden valley where a peaceful village lives untouched by time or war, unaware of the outside world’s turmoil.
Level B2HistoricalPeace with HonourA soldier returns home after years on a harsh frontier, reluctant to rejoin society until persuaded by his sister to visit a hospital where his bravery has inspired admiration and…
Level B2ClassicsPeace in Friendship VillageIn a small village winding down its Red Cross efforts, diverse neighbors prepare for a final celebration that reveals their intertwined histories, hopes, and the quiet strength of…
Level C1RomancePeace ManoeuvresCaught between duty and desire during a tense military standoff, a scout must navigate uncertain roads and risky choices—while haunted by memories of a rejected love.
Level C1HistoricalPeaceIn a war-weary Greece, rustic Trygaeus mounts a giant dung-beetle to confront the gods and rescue the imprisoned goddess Peace, rallying the fractured city-states for a bold bid to…
Level C1ClassicsPaz (La Fausse Maitresse)In 1835 Paris, a wealthy heiress marries a young Polish exile amid political tensions and fading fortunes.
Level C1ClassicsPawnedIn the rain-soaked streets of New York’s East Side, a grieving cabman entrusts his newborn daughter to a pawnbroker’s care after a tragic loss, setting the stage for a story of har…
Level C1HorrorPausanias, the Spartan; The Haunted and the Haunters: An Unfinished Historical RomanceAmid the turbulent aftermath of the battle of Plataea, a Spartan regent rises to unparalleled power and influence across Greece, concealing a dark conspiracy that could reshape his…
Level C1RomancePauline's Passion and PunishmentA woman tormented by betrayal faces a shattering letter that ends a passionate promise, igniting a fierce resolve for a deeper, subtler vengeance than mere death.
Level B2Children'sPaulina and her PetsAn intelligent and kind-hearted girl devotes herself to rescuing and caring for injured and abandoned animals, creating a heartwarming haven for her beloved pets.
Level B2HistoricalPaula the WaldensianIn a serene valley, Paula, a tender-hearted country girl, navigates childhood and faith amid the echoes of an ancient convent and village tales.
Level C1ClassicsPaula Monti; or, The Hôtel LambertAt the 1837 Paris Opera-ball, high society mingles with mystery and scandal, centering around the enigmatic Princess de Hansfeld of the Hôtel Lambert.
Level C1ClassicsPaul the minstrel, and other storiesStep into a semi-medieval world where romantic adventures mask deeper lessons on the challenges of moral choice and the struggle between impulse and virtue, as a schoolmaster weave…
Level B2HistoricalPaul the Peddler; Or, The Fortunes of a Young Street MerchantA resourceful fourteen-year-old street merchant in New York sells prize packages filled with candy and surprise coins, navigating competition, setbacks, and clever schemes in his q…
Level B2AdventurePaul the CourageousRestless and adventurous Paul longs to escape his dull hometown for a thrilling summer holiday in Norway, dreaming of Viking tales and daring bear hunts amid fjords and mountains.
Level C1RomancePaul and Virginia from the French of J.B.H. de Saint PierreAmidst the idyllic beauty of Mauritius, two young souls, Paul and Virginia, grow up bound by innocent love and nature’s charm, their tender story unfolding against a backdrop of ph…
Level C1RomancePaul and VirginiaTwo childhood friends grow up in idyllic nature, their innocent bond blossoming amid a world where the love of the natural world deepens and shapes their lives.
Level B2ClassicsPaul and His Dog, v.2 (Novels of Paul de Kock Volume XIV)A fearless boy defies warnings to swim in dangerous waters, only to be saved by his loyal dog Ami, whose bravery contrasts with his young master's mischievous nature.
Level B2RomancePaul and His Dog, v.1 (Novels of Paul de Kock Volume XIII)Dive into the vibrant chaos of an Opéra masquerade, where masked strangers ignite fleeting passions and playful deceptions amid swirling music and crowded ballrooms.
Level C1ClassicsPaul VerlaineA fragile poet wrestles with the torment of creative need and personal weakness, revealing raw human emotion in every line.
Level C1ClassicsPaul Rundel: A NovelIn a mountain village, young Paul Rundel struggles against bullying and harsh family hardships while carrying the weight of his ailing father and a cold mother.
Level B2ClassicsPaul RalstonIn Oak City, Miss Phebe Hansford anticipates a bustling summer season as visitors arrive and the town awakens from winter’s gloom, while she navigates family tensions and the promi…
Level C1AdventurePaul Prescott's ChargeA determined boy faces strict discipline and mischievous adventures under the watchful eye of his stern father, while carrying the weight of a solemn charge from his dying parent t…
Level C1ClassicsPaul PatoffA reflective narrator invites you into a tale woven with the restless whispers of the south wind, exploring the tension between youthful hope and the inevitable shadows of aging an…
Level C1ClassicsPaul KelverIn the shadowed streets of London's East End, a worn man revisits a crumbling house that holds memories of a troubled past and faded family hopes.
Level C1AdventurePaul JonesA daring naval commander fights to establish the American navy’s honor during the Revolutionary War, facing overwhelming odds with unmatched skill and bravery.
Level B2Children'sPaul Harley's dreamOn a cold New Year's Eve, rebellious Paul Harley resents the solemn traditions and longs for the wild adventures of last year, challenging the wisdom of his loving grandparents and…
Level C1AdventurePaul Gosslett's Confessions in Love, Law, and The Civil ServiceAn uneasy mission unfolds as a man skilled in Italian is tasked with negotiating with brigands holding a wealthy baronet’s son hostage in Calabria.
Level C1AdventurePaul Gerrard, the Cabin BoyCaught in a fierce November storm, a young cabin boy aboard the frigate Cerberus navigates the harsh realities and camaraderie of naval life, where loyalty and courage are tested o…
Level C1ClassicsPaul Faber, SurgeonIn a tranquil English countryside, a spirited surgeon and a benevolent rector cross paths, revealing glimpses of their intertwined lives amidst rural charm, humor, and the quiet pu…
Level C1MysteryPaul Clifford — Volume 07Amidst the harsh judgments of the law and the looming shadow of disgrace, Lucy struggles to protect her love and her innocence while powerful forces conspire to control her fate th…
Level C1MysteryPaul Clifford — Volume 06In a world of cunning thieves and sharp wits, a group of rogues revel in their spoils, weaving loyalty and treachery into a dangerous game.
Level C1MysteryPaul Clifford — Volume 05A brooding outlaw navigates secret rendezvous and shadowy plans in a world where loyalty and danger intertwine.
Level C1ClassicsPaul Clifford — Volume 04In a shadowy alehouse, a band of roguish companions plot their next daring exploit, blending wit, rivalry, and ambition as they navigate the blurred lines between gentlemanly charm…
Level C1MysteryPaul Clifford — Volume 03Under the pale moonlight near Warlock, masked horsemen prepare for a daring adventure, their secretive plans shadowed by tension and a mysterious new ally.
Level C2MysteryPaul Clifford — Volume 02Imprisoned and injured, Paul Clifford clings to hope amid grim surroundings, relying on unlikely allies and his own ideals of justice.
Level C1ClassicsPaul Clifford — Volume 01A gripping exploration of crime and punishment unveils the harsh realities of a young man shaped by a corrupt prison system and society’s brutal justice.
Level B1RomancePatty—BrideCaught between a loyal engagement and a persistent admirer unwilling to surrender, Patty navigates the turbulent waters of love, friendship, and promise in a delicate struggle wher…
Level B2Children'sPatty's Summer DaysAmid wedding preparations and sparkling gifts, young Patty navigates the excitement and challenges of her soon-to-be stepmother’s arrival, all while balancing the pressures of scho…
Level B2RomancePatty's SuitorsAt a dazzling Valentine party, spirited Patty delights in playful flirtations and charming dances, surrounded by admirers and festive romance.
Level B2Children'sPatty's SuccessAfter a long voyage aboard the Mauretania, Patty returns home from Europe brimming with stories and charm, navigating customs, friends, and festive New York streets as she settles…
Level B2RomancePatty's Social SeasonAmid a dazzling flood of congratulatory flowers flooding her New York home, Patty navigates the chaos of her debutante season with charm and wit.
Level B2AdventurePatty's Pleasure TripAmid the serene English countryside at Markleham Grange, Patty enjoys peaceful mornings filled with books, gardens, and lively chats about fashion with her spirited friend Lady Kit…
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.