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.
ClassicsHolly berries from DickensDive into a festive journey through beloved Dickensian worlds, revisiting iconic characters and tales day by day, each chapter a glimpse into the rich, intertwining stories of Vict…
Level B2Children'sHollowmellA spirited schoolgirl named Minnie battles her careless habits and social challenges as she navigates friendships and responsibilities at her lively school.
Level B2AdventureHollowdell Grange: Holiday Hours in a Country HomeOn a scorching midsummer day, young Fred Morris journeys to Hollowdell station, where cousins Harry and Philip eagerly await his arrival.
Level B1AdventureHollow Tree Nights and DaysDeep in the Big Deep Woods, the Hollow Tree friends—'Coon, 'Possum, and Old Black Crow—gather to share stories, adventures, and friendship, bridging their secret world with the edg…
Level C1HistoricalHolidays at Roselands: A Sequel to Elsie DinsmoreElsie faces the challenge of navigating family love, social expectations, and her own feelings during a holiday season filled with tender moments, unexpected gifts, and the promise…
Level B2AdventureHolidays at BrightonTwo boys explore the bustling seaside town of Brighton, discovering its sparkling sea, grand pier, and strange new buildings while learning about the engineering marvels and seasid…
Level B2Children'sHoliday storiesIn a grand estate shadowed by an irritable matriarch, a devoted maid endures sharp tempers and long years of service, revealing the complex ties of loyalty and hardship beneath the…
Level B2ClassicsHoliday Tales: Christmas in the AdirondacksAn old trapper spends Christmas Eve alone in his cozy woodland cabin, reflecting on faith, goodwill, and the hardships faced by those forgotten.
Level B2Children'sHoliday TalesSeven spirited brothers imagine grand adventures and dream of transforming their rough "desert" into a beautiful garden to brighten their ailing mother's days, blending childhood m…
Level B2Children'sHoliday Stories for Young PeopleA young girl named Milly Van Doren is entrusted to keep house and care for her grandmother while her parents travel, leading her to eagerly organize a social club and face the real…
Level C1Children'sHoliday RomanceTwo childhood friends, united by secret vows and daring schemes, face a hilarious battle of wits and courage to rescue their brides from a strict school.
Level C1Children'sHoliday House: A Series of TalesMischievous and lively children challenge the rigid, overly strict education of their time, revealing the sparks of natural genius and heartfelt enthusiasm amid lessons and discipl…
Level B2Science FictionHoles, IncorporatedTwo inventors unveil a mysterious device that creates holes into the fourth dimension, defying all logic and revolutionizing construction.
Level C1ClassicsHolden with the CordsIn a quiet elm-lined street, a strikingly plain yet prominent building hints at hidden stories of faith, temptation, and moral struggle.
Level B2Children'sHold fastA blind grandfather shares a heartfelt story with his granddaughter about faith, sin, and salvation, revealing how even the most faithful must rely on mercy to find hope.
Level B2Children'sHold 'em, Wyndham!At Wyndham School, football coach G.
Level C1ClassicsHocken and Hunken: A Tale of TroyA seasoned captain returns to his seaside hometown after years at sea, reflecting on the changing harbor and familiar faces as he contemplates the tides of life on land and water.
Level C1HistoricalHiwa: A Tale of Ancient HawaiiIn a lush ancient Hawaiian valley, a daring high-priestess flees deadly enemies, risking everything to protect a royal secret.
Level C1HistoricalHistory of the Plague in LondonAmid the turmoil of 17th-century London, witness the gripping account of the plague’s devastating impact on the city and its people, revealing the resilience and chaos that defined…
Level B2Children'sHistory of my petsA young girl finds unexpected joy and companionship in a beautiful white kitten named Keturah, whose playful antics and loyal presence brighten her days and even accompany her to a…
Level C1Science FictionHistory of a World of Immortals without a GodA bitter misanthrope and surgeon turned traveler, Gervaas Van Varken abandons his profession to explore the East, seeking answers in a world where immortality reigns without divine…
Level C1HistoricalHistory of Spanish and Portuguese Literature (Vol 2 of 2)Explore the rich origins of Portuguese poetry, shaped by unique linguistic beauty and distinct from its Spanish neighbor, revealing a vibrant literary tradition that flourished alo…
Level C1HistoricalHistory of Spanish and Portuguese Literature (Vol 1 of 2)Explore the rich evolution of Spanish and Portuguese literature through a detailed historical and critical survey that links literary developments to societal changes, featuring ra…
Level C1HistoricalHistory of Spanish Literature, vol. 3 (of 3)Explore the rich evolution of Spanish literature from the 16th to early 19th centuries, delving into satirical, elegiac, and pastoral poetry alongside the vibrant voices that shape…
Level C1HistoricalHistory of Spanish Literature, vol. 2 (of 3)Explore the clash between religious authority and emerging secular drama in 16th-century Spain, where early playwrights navigate censorship, church influence, and evolving theatric…
Level C1HistoricalHistory of Spanish Literature, vol. 1 (of 3)Explore the turbulent literary landscape of early 19th-century Spain, where political persecution silences many voices and a scholar guides a foreign traveler through rare, treasur…
Level C1HistoricalHistory of Roman Literature from its Earliest Period to the Augustan Age. Vol. IIExplore the evolution of Roman literature from its poetic beginnings to the rise of prose, set against the backdrop of Italy’s fertile lands and agricultural traditions that shaped…
Level C1HistoricalHistory of Roman Literature from its Earliest Period to the Augustan Age. Vol. IExplore the rich evolution of Roman literature, tracing its rise, progress, and influence amid the empire's vast political and military history.
Level B2HistoricalHistory of Orrin PierceRaised by a devout mother in a quaint cottage by the sea, young Orrin Pierce learns Scripture and the wonders of nature, nurturing a tender faith and a heart longing for holiness.
Level C1HistoricalHistory of English Literature from "Beowulf" to SwinburneExplore the rich tapestry of English literature from the heroic tales of Beowulf through the vibrant works of Chaucer and the Renaissance masters, uncovering the evolution of story…
Level C1HistoricalHistory of English Literature Volume 3 (of 3)Explore the evolution of English literature through in-depth analysis of major poets, novelists, and philosophers, tracing shifts from classical domination to modern voices like Di…
Level C1HistoricalHistory of English Literature Volume 2 (of 3)Explore the rich tapestry of English literature during the Renaissance, from the Reformation and Puritanism to the lives and works of Milton, Dryden, Addison, Swift, and early nove…
Level C1HistoricalHistory of English Literature Volume 1 (of 3)Explore the origins of English literature through vivid portraits and detailed analysis, beginning with Shakespeare's youthful defiance and the cultural forces shaping his genius.
Level C1HistoricalHistory of English Humour, Vol. 2Explore the evolution of English humour through burlesque, parody, and caricature, tracing their origins and impact from ancient times to the Civil War, revealing how imitation ser…
Level C1HistoricalHistory of English Humour, Vol. 1: With an Introduction upon Ancient HumourExplore the elusive nature of English humour as it unfolds through history, philosophy, and psychology, revealing the subtle laws and multifaceted character behind what makes us la…
Level C1HistoricalHistory of American LiteratureExplore the evolution of American literature from its English roots through the colonial era to its unique moral and democratic spirit.
Level C1HistoricalHistory as literature, and other essaysExplore the intersection of history, science, and literature through a series of thoughtful essays and addresses that argue for the vivid, literary presentation of historical and s…
Level B1HistoricalHistory Plays for the Grammar GradesStep into the vibrant world of history as children bring great figures like Columbus and John Smith to life through engaging plays, turning dry facts into thrilling adventures that…
Level C1HistoricalHistorical vignettes, 2nd seriesIn a world of courtly intrigue and desire, Elfrida, a radiant and coveted beauty, navigates the perilous passions of her husband Athelwold and the powerful King Edgar.
Level C1HistoricalHistorical vignettes, 1st seriesA weary King of England summons his devoted Captain, who shares a haunting past tied to a tragic royal exile.
Level C1HistoricalHistorical View of the Languages and Literature of the Slavic Nations: With a Sketch of Their Popular PoetryExplore the intellectual and cultural evolution of the vast Slavic nations, tracing their languages and literature from early origins to the influence of Christianity and missionar…
Level C1AdventureHistorical Romances: Under the Red Robe, Count Hannibal, A Gentleman of FranceIn a tense Parisian tavern, a sharp-witted gambler faces a young challenger in a duel forbidden by the Cardinal, where honor and danger collide amidst whispered threats and shiftin…
Level C1HistoricalHistorical Papers: Part 3 from Volume VI of The Works of John Greenleaf WhittierDive into stirring historical papers that illuminate the fierce debates and towering figures shaping Ireland, England, and early America—revealing the struggles for justice, libert…
Level C1HistoricalHistorical MiniaturesJourney through vivid historical scenes from ancient Egypt to Athens and medieval Europe, where craftsmen, philosophers, and rulers shape the fate of empires amid faith, struggle,…
Level C1RomanceHistoric Tales: The Romance of Reality. Vol. 14 (of 15), King Arthur (2)Jealousy and treachery ignite as King Mark plots against the valiant Tristram, while knights clash and secrets unravel at Arthur’s court, where love and honor collide in a perilous…
Level C1RomanceHistoric Tales: The Romance of Reality. Vol. 13 (of 15), King Arthur (1)In a time when Celtic kings clash with Saxon invaders, a mystical star heralds the rise of Uther Pendragon and his legendary son Arthur, destined to become the greatest knight and…
Level B2HistoricalHistoric Girls: Stories Of Girls Who Have Influenced The History Of Their TimesDiscover the inspiring stories of young girls across history who defy their times with courage, wit, and heart, from the dazzling ancient city of Palmyra to far-reaching lands, pro…
Level C1HistoricalHistoria CalamitatumAmid the vibrant intellectual and spiritual awakening of the twelfth century, a brilliant mind navigates the tensions of feudalism, religion, and emerging philosophy, revealing the…
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.