Graded to you
What do A1–C2 mean?
The reader uses the CEFR — the international scale for English levels, from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient). You pick a level, and every word above it is highlighted and explained, so you read just beyond your comfort zone without getting stuck on words you already know.
How the levels compare
| Level | What you can read at this level | Typical exam |
|---|---|---|
| A1 Beginner | Your first few hundred words, with almost every word voiced and highlighted as you read along. | — |
| A2 Elementary | Common words fade into the background so you stretch a little on every page without feeling lost. | — |
| B1 Intermediate | A great level for your first full classic — only genuinely less-common words are highlighted and explained. | ≈ IELTS 4–5 |
| B2 Upper intermediate | Highlights narrow to richer, more literary vocabulary — the words that make a classic feel its age. | ≈ IELTS 5.5–6.5 |
| C1 Advanced | Only rare, archaic, or specialised words are cued — useful for polishing exam-level vocabulary. | ≈ IELTS 7–8 |
| C2 Proficient | Almost nothing is highlighted; the lookup is there for the occasional obscure or antique term. | ≈ IELTS 8.5–9 |
How to choose your level
You don't need a test or an exact score. The best level is the one where you understand most of a page but still meet a few new words — enough to learn, not so many that you lose the story. Two quick ways to find yours:
- Open a book and read a page. If you understand almost everything, move up a level; if more than a handful of words are new, move down. You can change your level in the reader at any time, so nothing is locked in.
- Match what you can already do. Each level page has a “who this level is for” list — skim them and pick the one that sounds most like you.
Aim a little below your ceiling: reading should feel like a story, not a test. Why slightly-easier reading works →
Which level should I start at?
A rough guide by where you are now — open the level for titles that work well there and a free, printable reading list.
Common questions about levels
What CEFR level should I read at?
Read a little below your ceiling: pick the level where you understand most of a page but still meet a few new words. You set the level in the reader and can change it any time, so it is easy to try one and adjust.
How do I find my English level without taking a test?
Open any book and read a page. If you understand almost everything, move up a level; if more than a handful of words are new, move down. You can also skim the “who this level is for” notes on each level page and pick the one that sounds like you.
Can a beginner read a classic novel in English?
Yes — that is the idea here. At A1–A2 almost every word is voiced and highlighted, and you can tap any word for a simple meaning, so even a famous classic becomes readable. Start with a short, gentle story and let the audio set the pace.
What is the difference between A2 and B1?
A2 (Elementary) handles simple, routine topics with support on common words; B1 (Intermediate) follows the main points of clear everyday material and is the usual threshold for a first full classic. If short stories feel comfortable, try B1.
Do I have to read every book at the same level?
No. Set the level per session and change it whenever you like — drop a level for a denser book, raise it for an easy one. Your level is not fixed; it just controls how much vocabulary help is shown.