6 French Books to Read to Learn Beginner French
When it comes to improving your French skills, reading books in the French language can be an extremely effective method. Yet choosing the right book is not always easy. Many recommend French literary classics, but these are often written in old, formal styles, making them difficult for beginners to understand.
Fortunately, there are some modern, simple and captivating books that are perfect for learning and progressing in French. Here’s a selection of 6 French books suitable for beginners, with tips on how to get the most out of your reading.
Tips for Strengthening Your French with Books
Before diving into the book list, here are a few tips for maximizing your French progress through reading:
- Start slowly: Choose books adapted to your level so as not to get discouraged.
- Take your time: Don’t rush. Read at your own pace, and if necessary, reread certain passages for a better understanding.
- Don’t translate everything: If you don’t understand a word, try to guess the meaning from the context before looking it up in a dictionary.
- Write down vocabulary: Keep a vocabulary notebook where you record new words and expressions you come across.
- Read aloud: This helps improve pronunciation and reading fluency.
Recommended books for learning French
- Le Petit Nicolas by René Goscinny et Jean-Jacques Sempé
Le Petit Nicolas is a series of short stories told from the point of view of a young boy, Nicolas. The language is that of a child, so the sentences are simple, short and full of humor.
The vocabulary used is very accessible, and each chapter is a self-contained story, so you don’t feel overwhelmed by a long, complex narrative.
- L’Étranger by Albert Camus
Although a classic of French literature, L’Étranger is written in a direct style, with short sentences and simple vocabulary. The main character, Meursault, expresses his thoughts and actions in a detached manner, making it easy for the reader to follow the plot. This book is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in a literary work while remaining accessible.
- Enquête capitale by Marine Decourtis
This detective story for learners of French offers a captivating plot that’s still easy on the language. Ideal for learning investigative and everyday terms.
- Short Stories in French by Olly Richards
Short Stories in French for Beginners has been written especially for students from beginner to intermediate level, designed to give a sense of achievement, and most importantly – enjoyment! These eight captivating stories will both entertain you, and give you a feeling of progress when reading.
- Charlie et la Chocolaterie by Roald Dahl (French version)
This children’s classic is fun, easy to read and uses clear vocabulary. Although you may already be familiar with the story, the French version is perfect for progressing without being too difficult.
- Les yeux de Carmen by Veronique F. Courtois
Les Yeux de Carmen is a short novella meant for French language learners. Les Yeux de Carmen is accessible and engaging. Daniel is a 16-year old American boy who wants to enter a photography contest. He travels to French Guyana, where he visits his uncle’s family and also explores this diverse and intriguing country. On a day trip he meets Carmen, a girl with exceptional eyes. He wants to find Carmen again because he thinks he can win the contest with a picture of her. But he doesn’t see her again until one day… Daniel frequently expresses his points of view about the cultural differences between the United States and the new country that he is discovering. Les Yeux de Carmen is a novella filled with cultural substance and significant facts about French Guyana.
Reading is an effective way to learn and progress in French. The books we’ve listed here are specially adapted for beginners, and will help you enrich your vocabulary, improve your understanding of the language and discover French culture. Choose a book that inspires you and start your language adventure!