Reading is one of the most powerful ways to build your vocabulary and get a feel for a new language. But if you're an A2-level learner of Icelandic, picking up an original novel can be a frustrating experience. Constantly stopping to look up words makes it impossible to follow the plot, and the joy of reading quickly turns into a chore.
This is where graded readers come in. These are classic stories that have been carefully adapted for language learners. With vocabulary and grammar simplified to match your specific level, you can enjoy a great story, build confidence, and learn naturally, page by page.
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1Best choice
Around the World in Eighty Days Umhverfis jörðina á 80 dögum
Jules Verne's timeless adventure is the perfect entry point for A2 learners. Our edition is built on a science-based method, using vocabulary graded by frequency from a massive corpus of Icelandic text. The book features a unique progression system: sentences and paragraphs grow slightly longer as you read, gently improving your stamina. Plus, with a bilingual Icelandic-to-English glossary in the margin of every page, you never have to stop reading to understand a new word.
- Icelandic–English glossary of hard words in the margin of every page
- Difficulty rises inside the book (sentences & paragraphs grow longer)
- Exercises after every chapter (crosswords, gap-fills, anagrams and more) — in print and online
- Flashcards to print and cut out
- Vocabulary graded by corpus research (science-based)
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2
Short Stories in Icelandic for Beginners
This popular title from the Teach Yourself series offers a collection of eight original short stories written specifically for beginners. It is a well-regarded resource for learners starting their reading journey in Icelandic.
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3
Sagnasyrpa
Published by the University of Iceland Press, this intermediate reader is a collection of short stories by various Icelandic authors. It is a respected text used by learners to engage with authentic literary voices.
Our edition of Umhverfis jörðina á 80 dögum tops our list because it offers a complete, self-contained learning system designed for self-study. Beyond the story, you get exercises after every chapter (in the book and online), printable vocabulary flashcards, and our unique in-book progression that eases you into more complex text. The science-based vocabulary selection and the instant bilingual margin glossary ensure you're learning the right words efficiently, without ever losing the thread of the story.
| Pentecost | Typical simplified reader | |
|---|---|---|
| Icelandic–English glossary of hard words in the margin of every page | ✓ | ~ |
| Difficulty rises inside the book (sentences & paragraphs grow longer) | ✓ | ✕ |
| Exercises after every chapter (crosswords, gap-fills, anagrams and more) — in print and online | ✓ | ~ |
| Flashcards to print and cut out | ✓ | ✕ |
| Vocabulary graded by corpus research (science-based) | ✓ | ~ |
The verdict
For an A2 learner taking their first steps into reading Icelandic books, our edition of Umhverfis jörðina á 80 dögum is an excellent choice. The thrilling, globe-trotting plot is engaging enough to keep you turning the pages, while the complete learning system it's built upon provides the support needed for successful self-study. While the other titles on our list are also solid options for expanding your reading practice, the integrated tools in the Pentecost edition are designed to make your reading as smooth and effective as possible.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is a graded reader?
A graded reader is a book, often a classic story, that has been simplified for language learners. The vocabulary and grammar are carefully controlled to match a specific proficiency level, like A2 on the CEFR scale. This allows you to read a full story without feeling overwhelmed, making learning more natural and enjoyable.
I'm at an A2 level in Icelandic. Am I ready to read a whole book?
Absolutely! An A2 graded reader is designed precisely for your level. Our books even include a gentle difficulty progression within the story itself—sentences start shorter and gradually get longer—to help build your reading confidence from the first chapter to the last.
What makes Pentecost readers so effective for self-study?
Our books are a complete learning system. The vocabulary is scientifically chosen based on word frequency. Every book includes a bilingual margin glossary for instant translations, exercises after each chapter (in print and online), and printable flashcards. This combination of features provides all the support you need to read and learn independently.
How does the bilingual margin glossary work?
On every page, more difficult Icelandic words are listed in the margin with their English translation right next to them. This means you don't have to put the book down or use a separate dictionary. You can see the meaning instantly and continue reading without interruption, which helps you stay immersed in the story.
Should I try to understand every single word when I read?
The goal of extensive reading is to understand the general meaning and enjoy the story. Don't worry about understanding 100% of the words. Read for flow and context. Our margin glossary is there for key words that block your understanding, but try to infer meaning from the surrounding text first. This is a powerful skill to develop.
Ranking reflects suitability for independent learners at this level. We list respected alternative series for context; prices and availability vary by retailer. The right-hand column describes a typical simplified reader in general; individual competing titles may differ.