Boost Your English Skills: Top Books Every ESL Student Should Read

Children’s Fiction / Beginner ESL

This imaginative story takes readers inside the whimsical world of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. Fun characters and magical scenes make reading enjoyable. Simple vocabulary and repetitive structures help build confidence for beginner ESL readers.

Children’s Fiction / Beginner ESL

A classic tale of friendship and loyalty between a pig named Wilbur and a wise spider named Charlotte. The book’s clear narrative and heartwarming tone make it accessible for ESL learners while teaching important values and expanding vocabulary.

Middle Grade / Intermediate ESL

Combining humor, mystery, and life lessons, this novel follows Stanley Yelnats at a juvenile detention camp as he uncovers a family curse. Its layered story keeps readers engaged, while more advanced vocabulary supports growing language skills.

Young Adult Fiction / Intermediate to Advanced ESL

This novel explores love, illness, and self-discovery through the lives of two teenagers with cancer who fall in love. The conversational tone helps students practice real-world English, while building empathy and understanding.

Classic / Inspirational Fiction

A personal favorite, this inspiring story follows Santiago, a young shepherd chasing a dream of hidden treasure. While the language is simple and clear, the themes of destiny, purpose, and self-discovery offer depth. As a result, it’s a meaningful and manageable read for ESL students.

Political Allegory / Classic Fiction

This short novel uses animals to represent political beliefs and figures. It presents themes of power and control through simple symbolism. ESL readers can explore complex ideas with support, making it ideal for class discussions.

Classic Fiction / Short Novel

This is the story of an aging fisherman’s struggle with a giant marlin. The author’s language is clear and direct. Its short length and deep themes offer advanced ESL learners a great introduction to exploring meaning in literature.

Historical Fiction / Intermediate to Advanced ESL

Set in the American South during a time of racial segregation, this novel portrays the experiences of African-American maids working in white households. The different narrators help readers hear and understand various ways people speak and think.

Classic Fiction / Short and Impactful

This novel follows two migrant workers searching for stability during the Great Depression. The book’s clear language, emotional depth, and social themes offer ESL learners a meaningful way to deepen their understanding of English literature.

Spiritual Growth / Advanced ESL

If there’s one book everyone should read, this might be it. It explores negative thought patterns and the role of the ego. The book also introduces ideas about spiritual awakening and becoming more present in daily life. Though some concepts and vocabulary are advanced, it’s a rewarding read for ESL students interested in mindfulness and personal growth.

Memoir / Inspirational

You don’t need to be a Matthew McConaughey fan to enjoy this book. It shares his personal stories, life lessons, and “greenlights” we can all relate to. The informal tone and common expressions help ESL students learn real English. At the same time, it offers insight into American culture and how people speak in daily life.

Memoir / Life Lessons

This touching life story is based on real conversations between a student and his former professor. It shares simple yet important life lessons. The language is clear and easy to follow, making it a great choice for ESL students looking to improve their everyday English.

Self-Help / Communication Skills

This helpful guide shares 92 simple tips to improve how you speak with others at work and in daily life. It uses straightforward language and real-life examples, making it a great choice for ESL students who want to practice conversation skills.

Personal Development / Productivity

This global bestseller shares seven key habits to help you stay focused, organized, and productive. While some words may be challenging, ESL readers will benefit from its structured format and real-world applications.

Behavioral Science / Self-Help

Duhigg explores how habits are formed and how they can be changed using simple concepts from psychology and brain science. He explains each concept with relatable stories, making it easier for ESL students to understand and stay engaged.