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'sThe Little School-MothersAt Abbeyfield School, the third form girls are entrusted with welcoming Robina Starling, a shy newcomer sent from home due to her mother's illness.
Level C1AdventureThe Little SavageStranded alone on a rocky island after a shipwreck, a boy grows up under the harsh rule of his father's murderer.
Level B2ClassicsThe Little Russian ServantA young Russian peasant girl named Mavra enters noble service as an embroiderer, stepping into a world of opulence and strict hierarchy where her skills and quiet presence catch th…
Level B2ClassicsThe Little Room, and Other StoriesA family returns to a remote Vermont farm haunted by the mystery of a vanished "little room" that exists only in memory and imagination, challenging the boundaries between reality…
Level C1HistoricalThe Little Regiment, and Other Episodes of the American Civil WarAmid the fog and mud of a looming Civil War battle, soldiers brace for the coming clash, their camaraderie and tensions as palpable as the distant thunder of artillery.
Level A2Children'sThe Little Red Hen: An Old English Folk TaleIn a bustling barnyard, a diligent Little Red Hen discovers a wheat seed and sets out to plant, harvest, and bake bread—while the lazy pig, cat, and rat refuse to help.
Level C1HistoricalThe Little Red FootAmid the looming American Revolution, Sir William Johnson, a revered mediator between colonists and Native tribes, faces a heartbreaking dilemma of loyalty and honor.
Level B2RomanceThe Little Red Chimney: Being the Love Story of a Candy ManA candy vendor's quiet life turns intriguing when fate weaves him into a world of social intrigue, mistaken identities, and the pursuit of love amidst the colorful bustle of the ci…
Level C1Children'sThe Little Quaker; or, the Triumph of Virtue. A Tale for the Instruction of YouthTwo wayward brothers, scornful of their father's lessons, clash with Josiah, a kind-hearted Quaker boy whose gentle virtues starkly contrast their rebellious ways.
Level B2Children'sThe Little Princess of Tower HillMaggie Ascot, the pampered "Little Princess of Tower Hill," lives a life of luxury and admiration, but as education and discipline enter her world, her spirited nature begins to su…
Level B2FantasyThe Little Princess in the WoodA lively princess wakes to a magical summer day filled with playful Dew Children, woodland creatures, and enchanting lessons under the trees.
Level C1ClassicsThe Little Pilgrim: Further Experiences.: Stories of the Seen and the Unseen.A newly arrived soul in a realm beyond earthly suffering longs to comfort those still trapped in pain, guided by a sage who reveals hidden mysteries and takes her on a journey back…
PoetryThe Little People of the SnowDiscover a whimsical world where delicate snow spirits dance and play, inviting you to explore the magic and mystery hidden within winter's quiet beauty.
Level B2HistoricalThe Little Old PortraitAmid the turmoil of the French Revolution, a humble farmhouse in Touraine becomes a beacon of hope and courage, where children prepare to celebrate their mother’s birthday amidst m…
Level B1Children'sThe Little Nightcap LettersAunt Fanny welcomes a sweet little girl named Kitty, whose joyful hugs and loving words bring warmth and laughter, as they share stories and kindness with a lively group of childre…
PoetryThe Little Mother GooseDelight in a charming collection of Mother Goose rhymes brought to life with vivid illustrations, inviting children into a timeless world of playful verses and imaginative games.
Level B2ClassicsThe Little MissisIn a humble home filled with old memories and new hopes, Phebe wrestles with love, faith, and promises that may change her future forever.
Level C1ClassicsThe Little MinisterIn a quiet Scottish village, a young minister arrives, carrying the hopes of his proud mother and the watchful eyes of the townsfolk.
Level B1FantasyThe Little Match ManIn rainy Takoshima, a lonely man crafts a tiny matchstick figure that suddenly springs to life, revealing himself as a mystical Haji—a forest spirit trapped in a match, longing for…
Level C1ClassicsThe Little Man: A Farcical Morality in Three ScenesAt an Austrian railway station, a diverse group of travelers navigates cultural clashes and social tensions over simple requests and philosophies of equality.
Level B2Science FictionThe Little Man Who Wasn't QuiteIn the shadowy depths of skid row, a weary man revisits the world of misfits and lost souls, drawn into the haunting company of Wino Jones and the enigmatic Stanley—figures who blu…
Level C1HistoricalThe Little Maid of IsraelIn ancient Israel, a crippled boy anxiously awaits news of his sister Leah, who lingers in Samaria after hearing rumors of the prophet Elisha’s miraculous power to raise the dead.
Level B2Children'sThe Little Lame Prince: Rewritten for Young Readers by Margaret WatersBorn into royalty but struck by a mysterious accident at his christening, the little prince faces challenges with the help of an unexpected godmother whose love and guidance may sh…
Level B2Children'sThe Little Lame PrinceBorn a beautiful prince with twenty-four godparents, a royal heir’s life begins with joyous celebrations—until a hidden accident changes everything, challenging his future in the k…
Level C1Children'sThe Little Lady of the HorseA curious young girl and her loyal companion explore the mysteries of their coastal world, from the shimmering sea to the secrets of aging, in a tender tale of friendship, discover…
Level B2ClassicsThe Little Lady of the Big HouseAwakening on his sprawling estate, Dick Forrest navigates a day of careful efficiency, tending prized livestock and overseeing his ambitious plans.
Level C1RomanceThe Little Lady of Lagunitas: A Franco-Californian RomanceAmid California’s turbulent shift from Mexican rule to American statehood, a last Don watches as foreign intruders are cast out, setting the stage for a tale of romance, power stru…
Level B1Children'sThe Little Indian WeaverIn a Navajo village, young Bah dreams of crafting a doll from a corn ear while learning the art of weaving from her mother.
Level B2HistoricalThe Little ImmigrantA young girl reluctantly leaves her home to join her sister in America, embarking on a challenging six-week sea voyage and navigating the unfamiliar landscapes of Texas.
Level C1Children'sThe Little Hunchback ZiaA deformed boy named Zia flees a cruel home, hiding by day and wandering by night, haunted by fear and rejection.
Level B2Children'sThe Little Grey HouseIn a quaint little grey house surrounded by wild prairie, determined siblings face the challenge of taming their overgrown lawn and supporting their inventive, dreamer father whose…
Level B2FantasyThe Little Green GoblinA rebellious boy, weary of school and chores, is visited at midnight by a quirky little green goblin who challenges his understanding of the world.
Level C1RomanceThe Little Gray Lady: 1909In a quaint old house warmed by a grand fireplace, the Little Gray Lady—small, silver-haired, and full of grace—offers wisdom and comfort to her village, while her own long-hidden…
Level B2AdventureThe Little Gold Miners of the Sierras and Other StoriesOrphaned and determined, three young siblings navigate the rugged Sierra foothills, panning for gold and chasing freedom amidst dust, wild animals, and the harsh realities of front…
Level B2FantasyThe Little Glass Man, and Other StoriesStep into a magical world where the Fairy Queen publishes enchanting tales gathered from across Europe, and meet Gogul Mogul, a devoted fairy eager to share the mysterious story of…
Level B2Children'sThe Little Girl Who Was Taught by ExperienceLeft without her mother’s guidance, little Lucy grows vain and stubborn, mistaking beauty for worth and indulging selfish desires—until a wise aunt offers a chance for Lucy to lear…
Level B2AdventureThe Little Girl Lost: A Tale for Little GirlsA lively English girl grows up in a bustling British compound in Peking, navigating friendships across cultures and languages while exploring a world very different from England.
Level B1AdventureThe Little Gingerbread ManA mischievous gingerbread man springs to life and dashes away from the kitchen, sparking a chaotic chase through the garden involving a sleepy cat, a startled dog, and a determined…
Level B2Children'sThe Little GentlemanIn a struggling working-class neighborhood, spirited Melina Berryman defies her harsh grandmother and neighborhood taunts while navigating school, illness, and unexpected friendshi…
Level C1ClassicsThe Little French Lawyer: A ComedyIn a world where honor demands duels and loyalty tests friendship, two gentlemen navigate love, pride, and societal expectations in a witty comedy set amidst French nobility and le…
Level C1RomanceThe Little French GirlA young French girl arrives alone in a cold, unfamiliar London station, haunted by memories of sunlit Montarel and uncertain if the family of a fallen captain will welcome her.
Level B2Children'sThe Little Fig-tree StoriesIn a garden where blossoming trees debate their fate, four young fig trees struggle with their mysterious lack of flowers, longing to understand their nature and earn their place i…
Level B2HistoricalThe Little Duke: Richard the FearlessIn 943 Normandy, young Richard, heir to Duke William, grows up under the care of loyal vassals in the rugged Castle of Bayeux, where ancient customs and fierce loyalties shape his…
Level B2ClassicsThe Little Dream: An Allegory in Six ScenesIn a remote mountain hut, a daring climber prepares to conquer the formidable Great Horn at sunrise, forging an unexpected bond with Seelchen, a spirited local girl torn between he…
Level A2Children'sThe Little Dog Trusty; The Orange Man; and the Cherry Orchard; Being the Tenth Part of Early Lessons (1801)Two brothers face a broken basin of milk and a choice between honesty and fear.
Level C1ClassicsThe Little Cryptogram: A Literal Application to the Play of Hamlet of the Cipher System of Mr. Ignatius Donnelly.Delve into a groundbreaking application of a cipher system to Shakespeare's Hamlet, revealing hidden messages that challenge traditional authorship and uncover a secret history enc…
Level B2Children'sThe Little Colonel's House PartyIn a picturesque Kentucky valley, an eleven-year-old girl known as the Little Colonel prepares for a summer filled with friendship, family pride, and the charm of old Southern trad…
Level B2Children'sThe Little Colonel's HolidaysIn a grand Southern mansion, the spirited Little Colonel hosts a vibrant house party filled with friends, adventures, and summer delights.
Browse
Browse by level
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.