English Books

Which translation of The Little Prince should I read?

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I want to read The Little Prince in English for the first time. I found translations by Katherine Woods and Richard Howard. Which version is easier for an intermediate English learner?

4 replies

The modern translation is clearer

Alex Pham

18 July 2026, 8:15 pm
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Richard Howard's translation uses more modern English. I found it clearer when I first read the story.

Thanks for the recommendation

Linh Nguyen

18 July 2026, 9:02 pm

Replying to Alex Pham

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Thank you. Modern wording sounds better for my first reading.

Compare a sample chapter

Mai Hoang

19 July 2026, 12:40 am
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Katherine Woods has a more classic style. You could read one chapter from each version before choosing.

A direct style for learners

Booknook Admin

19 July 2026, 7:20 pm
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I also recommend Richard Howard for a learner. The sentences feel direct, but the meaning is still beautiful.

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