English Reading for Beginners: 33 Books for Practicing English

For students embarking on their language learning journey, reading English books is essential. For starters, this activity helps with your English reading comprehension while building up your vocabulary. In addition, reading English texts aloud can also help improve your pronunciation. This method is also a great way to learn about different grammar structures and how they are used in context. But these educational reads can also be fun! Choosing a book you love is an essential strategy for English reading for beginners. What better way than to dive into a big stack of the best books for English learners?

Reading English books can also be a relaxing activity, which can help reduce stress levels and improve your overall well-being. Its a method of language learning that has been used for centuries due to its accessibility. If you’re looking for a way to improve your English skills, make sure to add some English reading into your daily routine.

In this blog, we will explore the different genres you can search for as a beginner in reading English. Below you will find our comprehensive list of the best books in each category:

Short Stories

Short stories are a great option for English reading beginners. They’re usually easy to follow and understand, and they’re often entertaining as well. What’s more, reading short stories can help you develop your own writing style. So why not give it a try? You might just surprise yourself with how much you enjoy it!

“The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry

“The Gift of the Magi” is a short story by O. Henry about a young couple, Jim and Della, who are deeply in love but very poor. To buy each other Christmas gifts, they each sacrifice their most prized possessions. The story is often seen as a metaphor for the true meaning of Christmas, which is giving without expecting anything in return.

The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

The Yellow Wallpaper is a short story by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, first published in 1892. It’s one of our favourite books for learning English. The story follows a woman’s descent into madness, caused by the repressive treatment she receives while trying to recover from a nervous condition. It is written in the form of a journal, and it becomes increasingly apparent that the protagonist is suffering from delusions and hallucinations. The Yellow Wallpaper is widely considered to be an important work of feminist literature, as it highlights the various ways in which women were oppressed during the late 19th century.

The Lottery by Shirley Jackson

The Lottery is a short story by Shirley Jackson that was first published in 1948. The story takes place in a small town where the residents hold a lottery each year. As the story progresses, the reader begins to realize that the lottery is not what it seems. It becomes clear that the townspeople believe that the lottery is necessary to keep their crops from failing. The Lottery is a dark and disturbing tale that highlights the importance of tradition and conformity.

Reading for Kids

Children’s books are a great way to introduce English reading to beginners. They provide practice with basic reading skills while also being enjoyable to read. The best children’s books are both entertaining and educational, teaching important life lessons while also capturing the imagination. If you are looking for a way to improve your English reading skills, or simply want to enjoy a good book, then consider picking up a children’s book the next time you’re at the bookstore.

Charlottes Web by E.B. White

Charlotte’s Web is a classic children’s novel by E.B. White, first published in 1952. The story tells the tale of a young girl named Fern, who befriends a runt piglet named Wilbur. It’s an excellent English reading companion. The novel explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and love, and has charmed generations of readers. Thanks to its simple yet moving story, Charlotte’s Web has become one of the most beloved children’s books of all time.

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

The Giving Tree is a picture book written and illustrated by Shel Silverstein. First published in 1964, the book tells the story of a young boy’s relationship with a tree. The Giving Tree has been applauded for its simple yet powerful message about giving and selflessness. The Giving Tree remains one of Shel Silverstein’s most popular and enduring works.

The Tiger Who Came to Tea by Judith Kerr

The Tiger Who Came to Tea is a beloved children’s book by Judith Kerr. First published in 1968, the story follows the adventures of a young girl named Sophie and her encounter with a tiger who comes to tea. The Tiger Who Came to Tea remains a cherished classic, loved by generations of children and adults alike.

Reading for Students

These books will have a variety of exercises to help readers practice English reading comprehension and build their English vocabulary. By reading beginner English books, readers can improve their English reading skills while also enjoying a good story. For anyone looking to improve their English reading ability, student books are a great place to start.

English For Everyone by Thomas Booth

Thomas Booth’s English For Everyone is a comprehensive guide to the English language. Written in a clear and concise style, Booth covers all aspects of the language, from grammar and punctuation to vocabulary and spelling. He also includes helpful tips on how to improve one’s writing skills. With its straightforward approach, English For Everyone is an essential resource for anyone who wants to improve their command of the English language.

English Grammar Rules 101 by Melony Jacobs

English Grammar Rules 101 is a comprehensive guide to English grammar. It covers all the basics, from parts of speech to sentence structure, and provides clear explanations of how the rules work. The book also includes plenty of examples to illustrate each point. Whether you’re a student who wants to brush up on your grammar skills or a teacher looking for a resource to use in the classroom, English Grammar Rules 101 is an essential tool.

Short Stories in English for Beginners by Olly Richards

The book features ten short stories, each of which is followed by a series of comprehension questions. What sets this book apart from other similar resources is that the stories are all written in simple, easy-to-understand English. This makes them perfect for beginner readers who want to build their confidence and improve their fluency.

Reading for Adults

English reading for beginners can be a difficult and tedious task. However, it is essential for developing English proficiency. One way to make reading practice more enjoyable is to choose books that are interesting and engaging. Intermediate reading books are designed specifically for readers who are looking to improve their English skills. These books typically feature simplified language and storylines that are easy to follow. In addition, intermediate reading books often include activities and exercises to help reinforce key concepts. As a result, they provide an ideal way for English learners to improve their reading skills while also having fun.

101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think by Brianna Wiest

In 101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think, Brianna Wiest tackles pressing life questions with thoughtful consideration and a unique blend of honesty and humor. 101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think is an insightful and thought-provoking collection that will leave readers questioning their assumptions about life, love, and everything in between.

A Case of Exploding Mangoes by Mohammed Hanif

A Case of Exploding Mangoes by Mohammed Hanif is a darkly comic novel that tells the story of the final days of General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, the dictator of Pakistan. The story follows a young man named Ali Shigri, who is recruited into Zia’s security force. A Case of Exploding Mangoes is a fascinating look at a turbulent time in Pakistan’s history, told with Hanif’s trademark wit and irreverence.

Klara and the Sun by Kazou Ishiguro

In Kazuo Ishiguro’s Klara and the Sun, artificial intelligence comes in the form of an attentive and sincere AF who is purchased by Josie, a girl from a wealthy family, as a companion. Despite not being human, Klara possesses human-like emotions and quickly becomes devoted to Josie, who is often left alone by her parents. Throughout her journey, Klara comes to better understand the complexities of the human world and learns that even though she may not be human, she is still capable of making a difference.

Beginner Reading Practice

Introducing English reading for beginners! This is the perfect way to start practising English reading. These books are designed for English learners who are just beginning to learn how to read English. They include easy-to-read texts and simple illustrations that help to explain the story. In addition, each book includes a glossary of difficult words, so you can look up any words that you don’t know. These books are a great way to improve your English reading skills, and they’re also interesting and fun to read. So why not give them a try? You might be surprised at how much you enjoy it.

Mrs Wordsmith Reception English Colossal Workbook

The Mrs Wordsmith Reception English Colossal Workbook is a comprehensive resource that offers plenty of practice for children who are just starting to learn to read and write. The book covers all the key literacy skills that children need to master to be successful in school, including phonics, vocabulary, and grammar. With over 200 pages of activities, the Mrs Wordsmith Reception English Colossal Workbook is an essential tool for any parent who wants to help their child get ahead in school.

Mrs Wordsmith Storyteller’s Illustrated Dictionary

A dictionary is not usually considered a work of fiction, but the Mrs Wordsmith Storyteller’s Illustrated Dictionary is an exception. The dictionary is divided into seven sections, each of which focuses on a different aspect of language. In addition to the standard definitions, each entry includes an illustration and a story that brings the word to life. The result is a fun and educational book that will help children (and adults!) develop a love for language.

Oxford Reading Tree Books (Varied Levels)

The Oxford Reading Tree books are a series of children’s books that help children to learn to read. The books are divided into levels, with each level featuring progressively more difficult material. The books use a variety of methods to teach reading, including phonics, sight words, and whole language. In addition, the books feature engaging illustrations and storylines to keep children interested. The Oxford Reading Tree books have been very successful in helping children to learn to read, and they are widely used in schools and homes around the world.

English Reading Practice (Tips)

English reading for beginners can be frustrating. You know what the words mean in your own language, but when you see them in English they suddenly seem like gibberish. It’s enough to make you want to give up and watch Netflix instead. But don’t despair! Reading English books is one of the best ways to improve your English reading skills. Not only will you learn new vocabulary and grammar, but you’ll also get a better understanding of how English works. And once you start understanding English, reading becomes a lot more fun. So why not give it a try? Pick up an English book today and see how much your reading skills improve.

The Usborne Book of Everyday Words by Felicity Brooks

The Usborne Book of Everyday Words is a charming reference book that introduces young children to over 1,000 common English words. Arranged in alphabetical order, each entry includes a simple definition, an illustration, and a helpful example sentence. In addition to being a useful tool for building vocabulary, The Usborne Book of Everyday Words is also a great way to encourage a love of reading.

The Usborne Guide to Better English by Robyn Gee

The Usborne Guide to Better English is a concise and readable reference book that covers all the basics of good grammar and style. It includes clear explanations of tricky topics such as when to use adjectives and how to avoid common punctuation errors. The book also features helpful advice on everything from proofreading your work to using plain English. The result is a highly accessible guide that will be invaluable for anyone who wants to improve their writing skills. regardless of their level of expertise.

Mrs Wordsmith Spelling Targeted Practice

Mrs Wordsmith Spelling is a targeted practice program that helps children improve their spelling skills. The program provides a list of words for each child to practice, and the child can then take a quiz to test their knowledge. The program monitors the child’s progress and adjusts the difficulty of the words accordingly. Mrs Wordsmith Spelling is an effective way to help children improve their spelling skills and maintain progress over time.

English Paragraphs for Reading Practice

These paragraphs are specifically designed for English learners, and they cover a range of topics that will help you improve your reading comprehension. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re looking for something to keep your English skills sharp, these paragraphs are a great way to get some extra reading practice in. So why not give them a try? You might be surprised at how much you can learn.

Brilliant Activities for Reading Comprehension by Charlotte Makhlouf

Charlotte Makhlouf’s Brilliant Activities for Reading Comprehension is a comprehensive resource for teachers looking to bolster their students’ reading comprehension skills. The book includes a wide variety of activities, ranging from basic exercises that review key concepts to more challenging tasks that encourage higher-level thinking.

Andrew Brodie Basics Let’s Do Comprehension

Andrew Brodie Basics Let’s Do Comprehension is a comprehensive guide to teaching reading comprehension skills to students in grades 3-5. The includes an overview of the process of reading comprehension and the importance of using scaffolding and supports throughout instruction. Each strategy is accompanied by opportunities for practice, making this an excellent resource for any teacher looking to improve their students’ reading comprehension skills.

Getting to Grips with English Grammar by Charlotte Makhlouf

In Getting to Grips with English Grammar, Charlotte Makhlouf provides a clear and concise introduction to the basics of English grammar. The book is divided into two sections: “The Rules” and “The Exceptions”. In the first section, Makhlouf explains the main rules of English grammar in simple terms. In the second section, she looks at some of the most common exceptions to these rules. Throughout the book, Makhlouf uses everyday examples to illustrate her points. This is ideal English reading for beginners.

Classics

English reading for beginners can be difficult, but it’s essential for practicing English and developing language skills. Luckily, there are plenty of classic books that are perfect for English learners. These books often have simple plots and easy-to-understand language, making them ideal for beginning readers. In addition, classic books are typically short, so they can be easily finished in a single sitting. And because they’re such well-known stories, they provide an excellent opportunity to learn new vocabulary words. So if you’re looking for some good English reading practice, be sure to check out some of the classics. You might just find that you enjoy them more than you thought you would.

Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens

Oliver Twist is a novel by Charles Dickens that was first published in 1837. The novel is set in England in the early 19th century and follows the story of Oliver, a young orphan who is sold into servitude and then becomes involved with a group of criminals. The book was groundbreaking for its time, as it shed light on the harsh realities of life for the poor and working-class in England. Despite its bleak subject matter, Oliver Twist is also a heartwarming story of hope and redemption. It remains one of Dickens’ most popular novels and has been adapted for the stage, screen, and television numerous times.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice is a novel of manners by Jane Austen, first published in 1813. The story follows the lives of the Bennet sisters, five young women who must marry wealthy husbands to secure their future. However, the arrival of the wealthy Mr. Bingley and his friend Mr. Darcy throws the sisters’ plans into disarray. Pride and Prejudice becomes a timeless story of love, family, and society.

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women is the coming-of-age story of four sisters growing up during the Civil War. The story follows the girls as they experience the joys and sorrows of childhood, teenage years, and young adulthood. Along the way, they learn important lessons about love, loss, and what it means to be a family. As a result, Little Women is a heartwarming tale of sisterhood that will resonate with readers of all ages.

Sports

Sportsbooks can be a great way to learn more about a particular sport or athlete. If you’re a fan of basketball, for example, reading a biography of Michael Jordan can give you insight into his life and career. Whether you’re looking for English reading for beginners or simply want to learn more about sports, sports books are definitely worth considering.

Sportopedia by Adam Skinner

Sportopedia was a website founded in 2007 by Adam Skinner, a former athlete who has experience in both the recreational and competitive sides of the sport. The site has since become one of the most popular sports websites on the internet, with millions of visitors each month. Sportopedia is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the world of sport. This book is an illustrated synopsis of Adam Skinner’s work in the world of sport.

Tour De Force by Mark Cavendish

Tour de Force is a gripping account of Mark Cavendish’s meteoric rise to become one of the world’s top cyclists. The book chronicles Cavendish’s early days as a track racer, following his progress as he moves into road racing and quickly establishes himself as a leading sprinter. Tour de Force is an essential read for any fan of cycling, and anyone interested in learning more about one of the sport’s true greats.

Why We Kneel How We Rise by Michael Holding

In Why We Kneel How We Rise, Michael Holding argues that the act of kneeling is a powerful way to protest against racial injustice. Drawing on his own experience as a black man in America, Holding argues that kneeling is a way to assert one’s dignity in the face of oppression. Ultimately, Why We Kneel How We Rise is a powerful call to action that is sure to inspire anyone who reads it.

Music

There are a lot of different ways to learn English, but one of the most fun and effective ways is to read English books. Music books are especially good for English learners because they help with both reading practice and listening comprehension. In addition, music books often have very interesting and engaging stories that will keep you entertained as you learn. So if you’re looking for a fun and effective way to improve your English skills, be sure to check out music books!

Why Beethoven Threw the Stew by Steven Isserlis

In Why Beethoven Threw the Stew, world-renowned cellist Steven Isserlis takes a lighthearted look at Beethoven’s life, exploring what might have motivated some of the great composer’s more eccentric behaviour. By understanding the challenges faced by Beethoven, we can better appreciate his music and the man himself.

Ella Queen of Jazz by Helen Hancocks

Ella Queen of Jazz is a delightful picture book biography of the legendary singer Ella Fitzgerald. Written in simple rhyming verse, the book tells the story of how Ella rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most influential jazz singers of all time. This is an ideal introduction to Ella Fitzgerald for young readers, and it will surely inspire them to seek out her music.

The Beautiful Ones by Prince

The Beautiful Ones is the story of Prince’s coming of age, told in his own words. It is a candid and revelatory account of his early life, his first loves, and his foray into the music business. The Beautiful Ones is a remarkable story of one man’s journey to self-discovery, told with raw honesty and fearless candor. It is a must-read for anyone who has ever loved Prince’s music or been inspired by his groundbreaking work.

Movies

English reading for beginners can be difficult. There are so many different books and resources out there, and it can be tough to know where to start. However, one great option for English reading beginners is books about film. These books often use simple language and concise descriptions to explain complex concepts. In addition, they provide a great opportunity to learn about film history and criticism. As a result, reading books about the film is a great way to improve your English reading skills.

Making Movies by Sidney Lumet

Sidney Lumet’s Making Movies is a masterclass in filmmaking, packed with insider secrets and wisdom gleaned from the director’s decades-long career. Throughout the book, Lumet stresses the importance of collaboration, urging filmmakers to work closely with their cast and crew to bring their vision to life. Full of keen insight and wit, Making Movies is required reading for any aspiring filmmaker.

Sculpting in Time by Andrei Tarkovsky

In Sculpting in Time, Andrei Tarkovsky draws on his experience as a film director to explore the nature of time and its relationship to art. This is a fascinating work that will appeal to anyone interested in time, memory, and art.

Film Art: An Introduction by David Bordwell

In his book Film Art: An Introduction, David Bordwell provides a comprehensive overview of the art of film. He discusses the history of film, the different genres and styles that have developed over the years, and the elements that make up a great film. Bordwell also offers his own insights and opinions on various films and filmmakers, making the book both informative and engaging. Overall, Film Art: An Introduction is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning more about the world of film.

Conclusion

Reading English for beginners can be tough. You might not understand all the words, and sentence structure can be confusing. But even if you can only understand a little bit, reading is still beneficial. Why? Practice. The more you read, the better your English writing and speaking skills will become. English reading also helps improve your vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. So even if it’s tough at first, don’t give up! Keep reading, and your English language skills will improve in no time.

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