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 C1ClassicsFacts and fancies for the curious from the harvest-fields of literatureDive into a rich miscellany of intriguing literary facts, historical sagas, and curious discoveries, from Norse explorers to cultural anecdotes, perfect for readers seeking surpris…
Level C1ClassicsFacino CaneImmersed in the vibrant life of a Parisian suburb, a keen observer slips into the souls of its working-class inhabitants, uncovering hidden dramas and raw humanity beneath the surf…
Level B1AdventureFacing the WorldOrphaned and guarded by a harsh relative, a young boy runs away and finds unexpected friendship with a traveling magician.
Level B2AdventureFacing the German FoeTwo Boy Scouts, Harry and Dick, discuss the growing threat of war with Germany and how their training prepares them for more than just adventure.
Level C1Science FictionFacing the FlagIn a secluded North Carolina sanitarium, a brilliant yet mentally troubled inventor named Thomas Roch is confined, his genius shadowed by madness.
Level C1AdventureFaces and PlacesAn intrepid journalist’s chance encounter with Colonel Fred Burnaby in a balloon sparks a series of vivid adventures, capturing the daring spirit and colorful characters of a world…
Level C1ClassicsFables, of Æsop and other eminent mythologistsJourney into the world of Æsop, a clever slave whose wit outshines his harsh appearance and speech impediment.
Level C1ClassicsFables of La Fontaine — a New Edition, with NotesWitty and insightful fables reveal timeless truths through clever animal tales, blending humor and morality.
Level C1PoetryFables of Flowers for the Female Sex. With Zephyrus and Flora, a VisionDelight in a poetic vision where flowers speak through fables, offering moral lessons and gentle wisdom to young women.
Level B2ClassicsFables of Field and StaffStep into the relaxed world of a volunteer infantry regiment in peacetime, where quirky traditions and colorful characters bring military life to vivid, humorous life.
Level B2ClassicsFables in SlangWry and witty tales capture the quirks of everyday life with sharp humor and sly social commentary, from a phrenologist's dubious talents to a girl chasing elusive ideals.
Level B2ClassicsFables for the TimesWitty fables unfold as animals navigate vanity, deceit, and ambition in a forest where cleverness and folly collide, revealing timeless truths with humor and irony.
PoetryFables for the FrivolousWitty and whimsical poems reimagine classic fables with playful twists and clever humor, inviting readers to delight in familiar tales told with a lighthearted, frivolous spirit.
Level B1Children'sFables for Children, Stories for Children, Natural Science Stories, Popular Education, Decembrists, Moral TalesTimeless fables weave lessons of kindness, cunning, and consequences through tales of ants, lions, and clever mice.
Level C1HistoricalFables and Fabulists: Ancient and ModernExplore the rich tradition of fables as imaginative, moral tales where animals and objects speak and act with human insight, revealing timeless truths through brief, engaging stori…
PoetryFablesDive into a collection of poetic fables where whimsical creatures and mythical beings reveal timeless truths through witty, heartfelt tales dedicated to all walks of life.
Level B2ClassicsFablesStep behind the scenes of a beloved sea tale as Captain Smollett and Long John Silver, characters aware of their fictional lives, debate morality, fate, and the whims of their Auth…
Level C1HistoricalFabiola; Or, The Church of the CatacombsIn the shadowed catacombs of pagan Rome, a young virgin and steadfast heroes endure persecution for their faith, illuminating the early Church’s trials and triumphs with courage an…
Level C2PoetryEyes of Youth: A Book of Verse by Padraic Colum, Shane Leslie, Viola Meynell, Ruth Lindsay, Hugh Austin, Judith Lytton, Olivia Meynell, Maurice Healy, Monica Saleeby & Francis Meynell. With four early poems by Francis Thompson & a foreword by Gilbert K. ChestertonDiscover a rich tapestry of brief yet profound poems that explore timeless themes from love and loss to cosmic revelation, brought to life by a diverse chorus of voices united by v…
Level C1Children'sEyes and No Eyes, and Other StoriesTwo boys take the same walk but experience it very differently—one finds the path dull, while the other discovers fascinating plants and hidden wonders.
Level B2Children'sEyebright: A StoryAt Miss Fitch’s school, young Isabella—nicknamed Eyebright—navigates the lively joys and small rebellions of childhood, from secret tree perches to the strict rules that shape her…
Level B2Children'sEye Service and Love ServiceTwo sisters prove the difference between mere "eye service" and true love by responsibly caring for their home and baby brother, resisting temptation and disobedience.
Level B2HistoricalExtracts from Adam's Diary, translated from the original ms.Discover the humorous and curious thoughts of the first man as he navigates life in the Garden of Eden, bewildered by a new companion who names everything and disrupts his solitude…
Level B2FantasyExtract from Captain Stormfield's Visit to HeavenAfter thirty years of cosmic travel, Captain Stormfield races a colossal comet and discovers the vast, wild wonders beyond our solar system, embarking on a fantastical journey that…
Level C1ClassicsExtempore Speech: How to Acquire and Practice ItUnlock the art of spontaneous public speaking through practical guidance that blends thorough preparation with natural, impassioned delivery.
Level B2ClassicsExperienceA cheerful young woman embraces life with wit and simplicity, sharing her everyday joys and loves in a heartfelt story that celebrates happiness amidst life's quiet moments.
Level B2ClassicsExpelledThree spirited sisters eagerly await their brother's return for Christmas, navigating family dynamics and the challenges of growing up in a tale of youthful joy, conflict, and the…
Level C1ClassicsExotics and RetrospectivesJourney to Japan’s sacred Mount Fuji reveals its spiritual grandeur and ancient legends, intertwining Shintō and Buddhist reverence.
Level B2ClassicsExits and EntrancesStep into a lively Victorian family’s memories, where nine sisters navigate childhood chores, strict fathers, and first loves in a bustling Brighton filled with vanished landmarks…
Level C1RomanceExit BettyOn her wedding night, a young bride’s dream turns to dread as she faces a haunting ordeal amid envious onlookers and unexpected absence.
Level C1ClassicsExiles: A Play in Three ActsIn a sunlit Dublin drawing room, complex emotions stir as Beatrice returns unexpectedly, rekindling old connections and unveiling hidden tensions with Richard and Archie.
Level C1HistoricalExiled for the Faith: A Tale of the Huguenot PersecutionAmid the opulent courts of Renaissance France, a young Scottish noble seeks fortune and patronage while navigating the perilous religious tensions of the Huguenot persecution.
Level C1HistoricalExcursions, and Poems: The Writings of Henry David Thoreau, Volume 05 (of 20)Embark on reflective journeys through nature and society, tracing the vivid landscapes and thoughtful observations of a traveler who challenges conventions and finds profound meani…
Level C1ClassicsExcursionsA young man rejects conventional careers and wealth to pursue a life of independence, nature, and thoughtful simplicity.
Level B2Children'sExcursion to the Orkney IslandsA family receives an unexpected letter inviting them to England, sparking excitement for a summer journey across the Atlantic.
Level C1RomanceExcavating a HusbandAt fifty, Katherine Boulby embraces her independent life and intellectual pursuits but yearns for romance.
Level C1ClassicsEwing's LadyIn the rugged San Juan Mountains, a poised lady encounters a shy, enigmatic youth whose awkward charm contrasts with the confident ranch hands of Bar-7.
Level C1ClassicsEvolution of Expression, Volume 2—RevisedExplore the art of oratory through distinct stages of expression, where each thought is boldly highlighted and brought to life with vocal vitality and volume, guiding speakers to c…
Level C1ClassicsEvolution of Expression — Volume 1Explore the progressive development of oratory as a natural art, guided by psychological principles and evolutionary growth from simple expression to refined mastery, enriched by c…
Level B2Science FictionEvil Out of OnzarIn a galaxy torn between the Allied Worlds and the Darzent Empire, the orphan system of Onzar seethes under a paranoid leader determined to seize control of vital warp-lines.
Level B2ClassicsEveryman's LandAmid the turmoil of war, a devoted nurse races to her wounded twin brother's side, grappling with guilt, loyalty, and a secret that could change everything.
Level B2FantasyEverychildA young boy named Everychild faces the giant Fear and embarks on a mysterious journey through enchanted realms, encountering legendary figures like Cinderella and the Sleeping Beau…
Level B2Children'sEverybody's businessIn the storm-battered village of Old Maxham, young Jessie senses trouble brewing beyond the crashing waves and restless wind.
Level B2ClassicsEverybody's Lonesome: A True Fairy StoryMary Alice, weary of her narrow, ordinary life and the dull predictability of small-town existence, longs for enchantment and a chance to become someone truly radiant.
Level B2PhilosophyEvery-day heroismA young boy battles a day filled with setbacks and frustration, learning from his mother that true heroism lies in conquering inner struggles and mastering self-control amidst life…
Level C1ClassicsEvery Man out of His HumourA sharp-witted playwright navigates the perilous world of Elizabethan theatre, blending classical learning with biting satire.
Level C1ClassicsEvery Man in His HumourIn a vibrant Elizabethan London, a sharp-witted playwright navigates the theatrical world, personal strife, and ambition, revealing a portrait of artistry, rivalry, and resilience…
Level C1ClassicsEvery Man in His HumorIn a vibrant Elizabethan world where poetry, politics, and personal strife collide, a bold young playwright navigates poverty, ambition, and rivalry on the road to theatrical fame.
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.