Words and Ideas

Rating:
Summary: Benefits of the Classics for All
Review: This interactive book brings the enhanced vocabulary from studying Greek or Latin to everyone. Having taken Latin throughout high school, I find myself frequently using that Latin vocabulary to figure out the meanings of unfamiliar English words. From passing entrance exams to reading literature, knowing word roots is infinitely useful.

Words & Ideas builds vocabulary by explaining Latin and Greek roots of words in the context that they are used. First, the book teaches readers to identify roots, with derivatives, charts to fill in, and even clever comic strips. Later, the roots are grouped into sections such as "medicine," "commerce and economics," and "history," not only defining the roots, but also providing historical background and humorous anecdotes, along with websites that have more information. I heartily applaud the organization of this book-having the roots grouped by context, rather than alphabetically or randomly. This way, they are taught just how they will later be seen, in related sets. Moreover, the glimpses into Roman and Greek culture encourage readers not only to recognize and define the roots of words, but also to put these terms in better context. This is an innovative approach to vocabulary building, introducing roots in related groups.