Reading is one of the most powerful ways to build your vocabulary and truly get a feel for a new language. But if you're an intermediate learner, jumping into an original Norwegian novel can be a frustrating experience. When you have to look up every third word, you quickly lose the plot, and the pleasure of reading turns into a joyless slog.
This is where graded readers come in. These are classic stories that have been carefully adapted to a specific language level. By simplifying complex grammar and using a controlled vocabulary, they allow you to enjoy a great story without the struggle. You get all the benefits of reading—in a package you can actually follow and enjoy.
-
1Best choice
Around the World in 80 Days Jorden rundt på 80 dager
Our edition of this classic adventure is uniquely designed for self-study. The vocabulary is scientifically graded from a massive corpus of Norwegian words, and the sentences gently grow in length, building your confidence from page to page. Plus, with a bilingual English glossary in the margin, exercises after each chapter, and printable flashcards, you have a complete system to ensure you never stop reading and learning.
- Norwegian–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)
-
2
The Mystery of Nils, Part 2
This book is the intermediate continuation of the popular 'Mystery of Nils' story, designed specifically for learners of Norwegian.
-
3
The Mystery of Nils, Part 1
A well-regarded story for beginners, this book introduces Norwegian vocabulary through a continuous narrative built around the most frequent words.
Our Pentecost editions consistently top our rankings because they are more than just simplified stories; they are complete learning systems. We build our books on a science-based method, grading vocabulary by frequency from a two-billion-word corpus. Inside each book, sentences and paragraphs gradually increase in complexity, gently raising your level. What truly sets our editions apart for self-study is the support system: a bilingual margin glossary in your native language for uninterrupted reading, plus exercises and printable flashcards to solidify your learning.
| Pentecost | Typical simplified reader | |
|---|---|---|
| Norwegian–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
While all the books on this list are solid choices for the B1 learner, our edition of Jorden rundt på 80 dager offers a uniquely supportive framework for self-study. The thrilling adventure story is a perfect vehicle for language learning, keeping you engaged from start to finish. The built-in learning system, especially the page-by-page glossary in your own language, removes the friction from reading, allowing you to simply enjoy the story and absorb the language naturally.
Frequently asked questions
Why should I read graded readers instead of original Norwegian books?
At the B1 level, original novels can be discouragingly difficult, turning reading into a chore. Graded readers adapt the language to your level, so you can follow the story, enjoy the process, and build vocabulary and confidence without constant dictionary look-ups.
What makes Pentecost graded readers ideal for self-study?
Our books are designed as a complete learning system. The vocabulary is scientifically chosen for your level, and the difficulty gently increases within the book itself. Crucially, a bilingual glossary in the margin gives you instant translations in your own language, so you never have to stop reading. This, combined with exercises and flashcards, provides all the support you need.
How do I know B1 is the right level for me?
If you can understand the main points of clear texts on familiar topics and can describe experiences and events, B1 is likely your level. A good test is to read a sample page: if you understand most of it but still encounter a few new words, it's a perfect fit for learning.
What is a bilingual margin glossary and why is it helpful?
It's a mini-dictionary right on the page, with difficult Norwegian words translated into your native language, such as English. This is a major advantage because you don't have to stop reading to look up a word in a separate dictionary or app. It keeps your reading smooth and enjoyable.
What's the best way to use a graded reader?
Read for pleasure first! Try to understand the story from context. Use the margin glossary for words that block your understanding. After reading a chapter, complete the exercises to reinforce what you've learned, and use the flashcards to practice key vocabulary.
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.