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 C2PhilosophyThe Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 2Explore a world where myth and nature intertwine, as detailed investigations challenge the existence of legendary creatures like griffins, blending ancient symbolism with scientifi…
Level C1HistoricalThe Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 1Explore the profound reflections and controversial reception of a 17th-century physician’s beliefs on faith and reason, enriched by scholarly annotations and historical insights th…
Level C2PhilosophyThe Works of Samuel Johnson, in Sixteen Volumes. Volume 04A woman's remorseful narrative reveals the harsh realities of seduction and societal judgment, exploring themes of innocence lost, guilt, and the struggle between conscience and co…
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. in Nine Volumes, Volume 08: The Lives of the Poets, Volume IIExplore the life of Matthew Prior, a poet who rises from obscure origins to royal favor, navigating literary rivalries, diplomatic missions, and the vibrant court life of 17th-cent…
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. in Nine Volumes, Volume 05: Miscellaneous PiecesDive into a rich collection of essays, prefaces, and reflections that explore language, literature, law, and culture—from the meticulous crafting of an English dictionary to though…
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. in Nine Volumes, Volume 04: The Adventurer; The IdlerExplore a collection of reflective essays that continue the moral and literary themes of the Rambler, offering keen insights into human nature, society, and virtue through the thou…
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. in Nine Volumes, Volume 03: The Rambler, Volume IIExplore a vast collection of reflective essays dissecting human nature, society, and the arts with sharp wit and timeless insights, revealing the complexities of fame, virtue, and…
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. in Nine Volumes, Volume 02: The Rambler, Volume IA piercing moralist confronts the follies and vices of an evolving society, rejecting frivolity to expose harsh truths and instruct a public hungry for deeper reflection.
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. in Eleven Volumes, Volume 06: Reviews, Political Tracts, and Lives of Eminent PersonsExplore insightful reviews, political reflections, and vivid biographies that illuminate 18th-century perspectives on history, governance, and notable figures, including surprising…
PoetryThe Works of Rudyard Kipling: One Volume EditionDive into a rich collection of verse capturing life’s ironies, colonial tales, and timeless human truths—from army antics to ghostly encounters—woven through vivid imagery and shar…
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 25Follow a renowned writer’s challenging years settling in Samoa, where he balances the hardships of island life with his literary pursuits and unexpected involvement in local politi…
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 24Follow a writer’s quest for health and inspiration along the Mediterranean coast, as he battles illness, seeks the perfect home, and finds creative renewal amid trials and fleeting…
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 23Explore the intimate world behind a literary giant through a rich collection of letters revealing friendships, travels, and personal struggles, offering an unprecedented glimpse in…
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 21In the vibrant streets of Paris, Dick Naseby observes a cast of intriguing characters, including the enigmatic "Admiral," a fallen artist with a mysterious past, as he navigates th…
Level B2RomanceThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 20A French prisoner of war navigates life inside Edinburgh Castle during the Napoleonic Wars, using wit, language skills, and charm to survive captivity and forge unexpected friendsh…
Level C1AdventureThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 19In the remote Pacific islands, three desperate men—castaways, traders, and adventurers—struggle through hardship and intrigue amid lush tropical beauty and shadowy dangers.
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 18Set sail on vivid voyages through the Marquesas, Paumotus, and Gilbert Islands, where a recovering traveler discovers exotic cultures, untamed landscapes, and a new lease on life i…
Level C1HistoricalThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 17Amidst the tangled politics of colonial Samoa, ancient traditions clash with modern influences as chiefs wield ceremonial power in a society caught between feudal past and contempo…
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 16Explore the turbulent legacy of the Stevenson family through centuries of Scottish history, marked by feuds, betrayals, and resilience.
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 15In 18th-century Edinburgh, the respected Deacon Brodie leads a double life as master carpenter by day and secret burglar by night, while his family and friends navigate loyalty, lo…
Level B2PoetryThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 14Step into a world of childhood wonder with poems that capture summer nights, seaside adventures, and dreams of distant lands.
Level C1AdventureThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 13In the tropical Marquesas, a mysterious tattooed white man stirs from dreams of distant lands as a sleek English schooner arrives, awakening a sleepy port and igniting curiosity am…
Level C1HistoricalThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 12Two brothers, heirs to a noble Scottish estate, become bitter rivals in a tale spanning years and continents, steeped in mystery, family secrets, and the haunting legacy of the Dur…
Level C1AdventureThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 11David Balfour rises from rags to sudden wealth, navigating the bustling, labyrinthine city with new status and dangers lurking at every turn.
Level C1AdventureThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 10In a strict Scottish household bound by rigid principles, John Nicholson—a clumsy, good-hearted young man—struggles against his father's expectations and his own missteps, setting…
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 09Dive into a mosaic of memories and portraits that weave together family histories, youthful reflections, and the rich tapestry of British life, revealing the deeply personal and cu…
Level B2HistoricalThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 08Amid the brewing conflict of King Henry VI’s reign, young Richard Shelton rallies villagers to a looming battle, confronting divided loyalties and the harsh realities of war in a v…
Level C1AdventureThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 07In a vanished German principality, Prince Otto embarks on a final springtime hunt amid mountain woods and rushing streams, where old alliances and rugged traditions shape a tale of…
Level B2AdventureThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 06A mysterious sea captain with a sabre-cut takes refuge at a lonely inn, sparking tales of buried treasure and a one-legged seafarer.
Level C1MysteryThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 05In the smoky confines of a Soho cigar divan, two old friends reunite, unveiling tales of poverty, law, and hidden fortunes amid London’s shadowy underworld.
Level C1AdventureThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 04An adventurous prince and his master of disguise immerse themselves in London's shadowy underworld, where a mysterious young man distributes cream tarts with a hint of mockery, lea…
Level C1HorrorThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 03Dive into a collection of vivid, intense studies that illuminate diverse lives and eras through sharp, striking portraits.
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 02Embark on a vivid journey aboard an emigrant ship, where the uneasy silence of strangers masks stories of hope and hardship.
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 01Delve into the rich heritage and introspective genius of a 19th-century writer whose Scottish roots and early encounters with theology and history shaped his captivating stories an…
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Lucian of Samosata — Volume 04Explore a vivid critique of ignorance and slander as it unravels tragic misunderstandings, rivalries, and false accusations that disrupt families and friendships, revealing the des…
Level C2PhilosophyThe Works of Lucian of Samosata — Volume 03Explore the life and wisdom of Demonax, a philosopher who blends humor, kindness, and insight while challenging societal norms and inspiring others toward virtue and contentment in…
Level C2Science FictionThe Works of Lucian of Samosata — Volume 02Dive into a witty exploration of the scholar’s struggle for patronage and intellectual survival, as the narrative unveils the harsh realities behind the allure of a life supported…
Level C2ClassicsThe Works of Lucian of Samosata — Volume 01Dive into the sharp wit and vivid satire of a Syrian-born writer navigating the world of rhetoric and philosophy under Roman rule.
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Lord Byron: Letters and Journals. Vol. 2Dive into the candid letters and journals of a turbulent poet, revealing intimate thoughts, fierce protectiveness, and raw reflections on life’s challenges and relationships.
Level C1ClassicsThe Works of Lord Byron: Letters and Journals. Vol. 1Delve into the early life and intimate letters of a spirited young nobleman, revealing struggles with health, education, and complex family dynamics.
Level C2PoetryThe Works of Lord Byron. Vol. 6Dive into the passionate and satirical world of Don Juan, where the hero's continuous adventures unfold against vivid, shifting landscapes.
Level C1PoetryThe Works of Lord Byron. Vol. 5: PoetryExplore the final poetic works of a passionate voice racing against time, blending historic drama and striking episodes with profound beauty and insight.
Level C1PoetryThe Works of Lord Byron. Vol. 4Explore a rich collection of thirteen major poems and several occasional pieces penned during the poet's mature years in exile across Switzerland and Italy, revealing a versatile g…
Level C1PoetryThe Works of Lord Byron. Vol. 3Dive into a collection of stirring metrical tales and poignant minor poems crafted during the peak of one poet’s fame, where passion, adventure, and the spirit of an age come vivid…
Level C1PoetryThe Works of Lord Byron. Vol. 2Dive into richly annotated volumes revealing the intricate drafts and historical insights behind Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage.
Level C1PoetryThe Works of Lord Byron, Vol. 7. PoetryDive into a rich collection of epigrams, rare poems, and complete fragments that reveal the revolutionary spirit and enduring influence of a poet celebrated across continents for h…
Level C2PoetryThe Works of Lord Byron, Vol. 1. PoetryAmid echoes of ancestral halls and fading gardens, a young poet wrestles with loss, memory, and the weight of heritage.
Level C1PoetryThe Works of John Marston. Volume 3In a bustling London goldsmith’s shop, two apprentices navigate contrasting paths—one reckless, one diligent—while a cunning knight schemes to seize an estate and escape to Virgini…
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.