The Penguin Readers are a series of English learning books for students learning English as a foreign language. With carefully tailored text, new illustrations, and language learning exercises, the printed edition also includes instructions for accessing supportive material online.

The titles include popular classics, exciting contemporary literature, and challenging non-fiction, introducing language learners to bestsellers and engaging content. The eight levels of Penguin Readers follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

The exercises at the back of each book help students practice grammar, vocabulary, and essential exam skills. Questions before, during, and after reading check comprehension of the story and expand vocabulary.

Les Misérables, a level 4 book, is A2+ according to the CEFR framework. The text consists of sentences of up to three clauses, introducing more complex uses of the present perfect, passive voice, phrasal verbs, and simple relative clauses. It is adequately supported by illustrations, which appear regularly.

In 19th century France, life was hard for many people. The famous book by Victor Hugo tells the story of Jean Valjean, who spends 19 years in prison for stealing a loaf of bread. When Valjean is released from prison, he starts a business and tries to become a better man, but the policeman Javert will do anything to stop him.