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 B2Children'sCicely and Other StoriesIn a bustling dressmaking shop under winter's gray sky, young seamstress Cicely struggles with cold solitude and endless work, until a chance encounter with a kind-hearted visitor…
Level C1ClassicsCicelyIn the sun-drenched south of France, young Geneviève navigates the quiet struggles of family duty, social expectations, and longing for a more vibrant life beyond her modest world.
Level A2AdventureChunky, the Happy Hippo: His Many AdventuresDive into the muddy African river with Chunky, a joyful young hippo who navigates family life and river adventures, hiding from dangers while savoring the lush riverbed grass and d…
Level B2AdventureChums of the Camp FireFour adventurous boys bond over springtime frog hunting near their hometown, dreaming of bigger catches and hidden treasures.
Level B2AdventureChums in Dixie; or, The Strange Cruise of a MotorboatTwo young adventurers set out on a daring motorboat cruise through mysterious Florida swamps, where they encounter fierce locals and chase after a wild boy from a feared river trib…
Level B2HistoricalChronicles of the Schonberg-Cotta FamilyAmidst the stirring backdrop of the Reformation, a young girl chronicles her family's intimate ties to Martin Luther, revealing the struggles and nobility found not in castles or c…
Level C1ClassicsChronicles of the Canongate, 1st SeriesAmid financial ruin and revealed identity, a once-anonymous author turns to storytelling with candid reflections and vivid tales drawn from Scottish life, blending humor, tragedy,…
Level B2MysteryChronicles of Martin HewittA determined detective probes the mysterious murder of an artist found dead in his smoking-room, amid vandalism and stolen valuables.
Level C1RomanceChronicles of Dustypore: A Tale of Modern Anglo-Indian SocietyIn the harsh, unforgiving Sandy Tracts of British India, new colonial order clashes with fierce extremes of nature and culture, setting the stage for a gripping tale of power, soci…
Level B2Children'sChronicles of AvonleaIn a quiet village, Anne Shirley observes the slow, fifteen-year courtship of Ludovic Speed and Theodora Dix, blending gentle humor with heartfelt reflections on love, friendship,…
Level C1RomanceChronicle of the CidAn epic tale of Ruy Diaz, the legendary Cid Campeador, whose valor and cunning unite Christian knights and Moorish kings in medieval Spain’s fierce battles and chivalric honor.
Level B2MysteryChristopher Quarles: College Professor and Master DetectiveIn a serene London square, a seemingly peaceful death in a scholar’s study masks a puzzling mystery: a dead man surrounded by delicate ivory boxes and a rare sapphire.
Level C1HistoricalChristopher Crayon's Recollections: The Life and Times of the late James Ewing Ritchie as told by himselfStep back to 1837 East Anglia, where political corruption, fierce elections, and colorful characters define a turbulent era.
Level B2FantasyChristmas-Tree LandTwo children journey to a mysterious white castle nestled among endless fir trees in a high valley, where ancient roots and magical forests hint at secrets and adventures in a land…
Level B2Children'sChristmas-TideDiscover thoughtful guidance on choosing simple, durable toys that nurture creativity and self-activity in young children, with practical suggestions tailored to each stage from in…
Level B2Children'sChristmas, A Happy Time: A Tale, Calculated for the Amusement and Instruction of Young PersonsTwo sisters eagerly await their brothers’ return just before Christmas, navigating cold winds and dashed hopes with hopeful hearts and family warmth at Beech Grove.
Level C1Children'sChristmas with Grandma ElsieSnowy landscapes and sparkling ice set the scene for a heartwarming holiday adventure as two families plan a rare sleigh-ride, balancing duty and delight in the spirit of Christmas…
Level C1ClassicsChristmas storiesOn Christmas Eve, Alice Warren prepares for her debut into society, her family’s wealth and warmth contrasting sharply with the envy and hidden struggles of Adelaide Huntington, wh…
Level B2RomanceChristmas on WheelsTrapped by a fierce snowstorm on a stranded train, a discontented young lawyer finds himself entangled with a spirited young woman and her dignified father—sparking unexpected conn…
Level C1PoetryChristmas offeringReflecting on life’s joys and sorrows through tender verse, this collection offers heartfelt poems on creation, family, and the quiet beauty of winter, inviting readers into intima…![Cover of Christmas in Poetry: Carols and Poems by Carnegie Library School. Association [Compiler]](https://dsx1pat3ljtul.cloudfront.net/books/daf26h8e1ofc73dhan60.webp)
PoetryChristmas in Poetry: Carols and PoemsCelebrate the spirit of the season through a rich collection of carols and poems that evoke the wonder, joy, and traditions of Christmas from around the world.
Level B2AdventureChristmas in Austria; or, Fritzl's friendsOn a snowy Christmas Eve in Vienna, a homeless boy and his faithful terrier seek shelter and hope amid the festive carols and bustling crowds, holding onto music, friendship, and t…
Level B1Children'sChristmas eve at Mulligan'sOn a Christmas Eve filled with hope and hardship, the Mulligan family dreams of a miracle: little Dannie regaining his sight.
Level C1PoetryChristmas at the hallStep into a heartfelt Christmas gathering where family, love, and memories intertwine through diverse poems capturing festive spirit and personal reflection.
Level C1ClassicsChristmas at Thompson HallA determined Mrs.
Level B2Children'sChristmas at Punkin HollerIn a lively schoolroom at Punkin Holler, Miss Peppergrass struggles to tame her rambunctious pupils as they prepare a joyous Christmas entertainment filled with songs, decorations,…
Level B1Children'sChristmas at McCarthy'sChildren in a close-knit tenement band together to protect little Elsie from a wealthy woman’s tempting offers, clinging to their makeshift family as they prepare for a joyful, hea…
Level B2AdventureChristmas at Cedar HillA cautious girl and three boys embark on a snowy Christmas train journey to Riverton, facing unexpected challenges and the responsibility of caring for one another along the way.
Level B2PoetryChristmas Tales and Christmas VerseA young man named Norss sails across mysterious seas guided by a dream to find his bride, encountering magical beings and wondrous adventures that lead to the birth of a remarkable…
Level C1PoetryChristmas SunshineCelebrate the spirit of the season with a heartfelt collection of poems and hymns that evoke the peace, joy, and sacred wonder of Christmas, inviting readers to reflect on its divi…
Level C1Children'sChristmas Stories: Containing John Wildgoose the Poacher, the Smuggler, and Good-nature, or Parish MattersA hardworking man’s dreams of a better life are shattered by a tragic accident, leaving his devoted wife to navigate loss, legal struggles, and the harsh realities of rural life.
Level B2PoetryChristmas Stories: "Jest 'Fore Christmas" and "The Night Before Christmas"On the quiet night before Christmas, a jolly St.![Cover of Christmas Stories from French and Spanish Writers by Antoinette [Translator] Ogden](https://dsx1pat3ljtul.cloudfront.net/books/dabm6io9638s73a2ufdg.webp)
Level B2ClassicsChristmas Stories from French and Spanish WritersA blind musician, orphaned and isolated, pours his soul into composing a grand requiem while struggling against poverty and political oppression.
Level B2Children'sChristmas Stories And LegendsIn a land where love for a just and gentle king inspires a unique birthday tradition, people bring pure white gifts symbolizing their true and unselfish affection.
Level B2Children'sChristmas StoriesIn a bustling boys' lodging-house on Christmas Eve, a small boy’s innocent faith in Santa stirs the tough crowd to unite and secretly fill his worn stocking.
Level B2Children'sChristmas Speakin' at Skaggs's SkuleStep into a lively old-time schoolroom where children prepare for a joyful Christmas entertainment filled with catchy songs, humorous duets, and spirited performances that capture…
Level C1ClassicsChristmas Roses and Other StoriesIn a wintry garden, a resilient widow tending Christmas roses finds unexpected hope and strength as she faces grief and a troubling letter from her family, reminding her that life’…
Level A2PoetryChristmas RosesDelight in a charming collection of heartwarming poems that celebrate the magic of Christmas, childhood innocence, and the simple joys of life, from hopeful wishes to playful tales…
Level C1PoetryChristmas Penny Readings: Original Sketches for the SeasonIn a harsh London winter, Hezekiah Thornypath faces crushing loss and poverty, struggling to provide for his family amid the festive season's stark contrasts.
Level B2HistoricalChristmas LightIn a humble Bethlehem garden, eight-year-old Naomi delights in the simple beauty of her home and the rich stories of her ancestors, setting the scene for a heartwarming journey thr…
Level B2Children'sChristmas Holidays; or, a Visit at HomeTwo brothers eagerly return home for Christmas, each with distinct temperaments shaped by family love and guidance.
Level B1Children'sChristmas Holidays at Merryvale: The Merryvale BoysBoys Toad and Reddy dive into festive adventures, from sledding and snowball battles to secret Christmas surprises and countryside escapades, capturing the joy and camaraderie of s…
Level B2ClassicsChristmas Eve on Lonesome and Other StoriesIn a snowy, secluded mountain town, a man fueled by years of hatred plots revenge against the enemy who betrayed him, only to confront unexpected truths on a tense Christmas Eve.
Level C1ClassicsChristmas Eve at Swamp's EndAmid a frozen, windswept lumber town on Christmas Eve, young Pattie Batch pours her heart into crafting a precious cloak, weaving warmth and love against the harsh wilderness and t…
Level C1HistoricalChristmas Eve and Christmas Day: Ten Christmas storiesAfter the Revolution, a Massachusetts family anxiously awaits the results of a state lottery promising land in Maine, unveiling hopes and struggles in a fledgling nation’s uncertai…
Level C2PoetryChristmas EveOn a stormy Christmas Eve, a reluctant stranger braves a crowded chapel filled with society’s outcasts, confronting cold stares and warm humanity alike as he seeks meaning amid the…
Level A2Children'sChristmas EntertainmentsStep into a festive world where children bring Christmas to life through songs, dances, and charming drills like the Snow Brigade and Christmas Stockings.
Level B2ClassicsChristmas DayStep into a frosty Christmas morning at an ancient English estate where charming children, loyal hounds, and heartfelt carols fill the air with festive magic and old-world traditio…
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.