The Nightingale
The emperor owns a magnificent palace, but the thing visitors admire most is a small bird singing in the woods. When he hears about the nightingale, he demands to hear it for himself. Soon another...
Stories to read, and read again.
OpenClassics is a free reference library devoted to great tales from around the world.
- Original texts. Clearly identified reference editions.
- Beautiful illustrations. Works by the great illustrators of these tales.
- A thoughtful selection. Verified sources, without mass-produced AI content.
- Easier reading. Optional modern wording, with the original always available.
- Music to read by. A masterpiece to listen to as you read, if you wish.
- Learning through play. A short quiz to explore each tale further.
And many more discoveries to share as you read.
Two tales at random
The Garden of Paradise
A prince has shelves full of books, yet none can tell him where to find the Garden of Paradise. He longs to see the wonderful place his grandmother described. A storm leads him to a cave where the...