Author: Norman Lewis (1912-2006) – Prolific linguist, grammarian, and author of 60+ language books. Former editor-in-chief of Funk & Wagnalls Standard Dictionary, renowned for making vocabulary building accessible and engaging.
Key Insights:
This timeless vocabulary builder combines psychology + fun:
The Lewis Method:
Root-Based Learning: Master 50 Greek/Latin roots to decode 10,000+ words (e.g., "chron" = time → chronology, chronic)
Thematic Chapters: Words grouped by topics (e.g., doctors, liars, actions)
Brain-Friendly Techniques:
Mnemonic Stories: "PECULIAR Mr. PECK wore a PECULIAR HAT" (to remember peculiar)
Self-Tests: Immediate application with crossword puzzles and analogies
Beyond Definitions:
Pronunciation Guides: Avoid "mis-CHEE-vee-ous" mistakes