These French B2 graded readers are designed for Upper Intermediate learners who can understand complex texts on both concrete and abstract topics. The stories use carefully calibrated vocabulary for the B2 CEFR level so you can enjoy reading while naturally expanding your French. A margin glossary on every page gives you instant translations — no need to reach for a separate dictionary. Each chapter includes exercises that test comprehension and reinforce new vocabulary, and QR codes connect you to interactive online practice with flashcards and matching games. Available as ebook, paperback, and hardcover.
About French
Where French is spoken
French is an official language in France and is widely used in Canada (especially Québec), Belgium, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and many countries in West and Central Africa and the Caribbean through the Francophonie.
How many people speak it
French has about 80 million native speakers and roughly 250–300 million total users including widespread second-language use in Africa and elsewhere.
Grammar and structure
French nouns and adjectives agree in gender and number; articles and partitive constructions are central. Verbs are conjugated for person, tense, and mood; compound past tenses (passé composé, imparfait) and the subjunctive are important milestones. Liaison and elision affect pronunciation and spelling awareness.
Best-rated French B2 graded readers
Ranked by average customer rating and number of reviews on our site. Every title below is a Pentecost graded reader: a simplified story at CEFR level with learning supports built in.
Shrink, grow, and navigate a world where "off with their heads!" is a common greeting. Absorb complex French structures and vocabulary naturally, building confidence with every madcap encounter. Contextual notes clarify tricky idioms and cultural nuances.
Side glossary · In-book and online exercises
The clock is ticking. Your fortune, and freedom, depend on a daring dash across the globe, pursued by a relentless detective. Master complex French structures and expand your vocabulary naturally, swept away by Fogg's epic journey. Contextual notes clarify tricky idioms, keeping you immersed.
Side glossary · In-book and online exercises
Her sharp wit clashed with his arrogant pride, but what if their first impressions were a dangerous deception? Absorb hundreds of real-world French words and complex grammar naturally as you get lost in this timeless tale of love and misunderstanding. A margin dictionary means you never break your reading flow.
Side glossary · In-book and online exercises
The gaslight flickers, a scream echoes, and a new mystery unfolds in Victorian London. Absorb complex French vocabulary and grammar naturally as you follow Holmes's brilliant deductions. A margin dictionary ensures your reading flow is never interrupted.
Side glossary · In-book and online exercises
What Our Readers Say
Our French B2 graded readers collection includes titles such as Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Around the World in 80 Days, Pride and Prejudice and The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes. Every book comes with a margin dictionary, chapter exercises, and interactive online games.
Find the Right Level
Not sure if B2 is the right level for you? Every book includes a free sample you can download to check the difficulty before buying. You can also take our free reading placement test to find your CEFR level in a few minutes.
Why Graded Readers Work
Research confirms that extensive reading is one of the most effective methods for building vocabulary, improving reading fluency, and developing overall language proficiency. Graded readers make this approach accessible by matching text difficulty to your CEFR level, so you stay in the optimal learning zone. Learn more about the science behind our approach on the Pentecost Method page.
