Evelyn Nielsen Wood was an influential American educator and businesswoman who left a lasting impact on the world of reading. Known for popularizing speed reading, Wood's innovative methods promised to increase
reading speed significantly while maintaining comprehension. Her journey from a curious student to a renowned educator is a testament to her dedication and vision.
Early Life and Education
Evelyn Nielsen Wood was born on January 8, 1909, in Logan, Utah, and grew up in Ogden. She pursued higher education at the University of Utah, where she earned a B.A. in English in 1929. Her academic journey continued as she worked towards a master's degree in speech. It was during this time that Wood's interest in reading techniques began to take shape. Her curiosity was piqued when she observed a professor quickly flipping through her master's thesis, yet demonstrating perfect comprehension. This experience sparked her interest in the habits of naturally fast readers.
Wood spent two years studying individuals who, according to her assessments, could read thousands of words per minute. This research laid the foundation for her future endeavors in speed reading. Her early career included a nine-year stint as a teacher and girls' counselor at Jordan High School in Sandy, Utah, where she honed her skills in education and counseling.
The Birth of Evelyn Wood Reading Dynamics
In 1959, Evelyn Wood, along with her husband Doug Wood, co-founded Evelyn Wood Reading Dynamics. The company was initially based in the Washington, D.C. area and quickly expanded to 32 cities. The business aimed to teach people how to read faster while maintaining or even improving comprehension. Wood's method involved using a finger or pointer to trace lines of text and eliminating subvocalization, which is reading aloud in one's head.
The success of Evelyn Wood Reading Dynamics was bolstered by media coverage and endorsements from high-profile individuals. The method gained widespread attention, and the company eventually had 150 outlets in the United States, 30 in Canada, and others worldwide. Despite some skepticism and critiques, the method became synonymous with speed reading, and Wood's name became a household term.
Later Years and Lasting Impact
Evelyn Wood's influence extended beyond her lifetime. In 1962, the Woods sold their business to a group of Washington investors, and it continued to evolve under new ownership. Wood remained a consultant and the face of the company, participating in radio interviews and TV appearances to promote the method. Her legacy was further cemented when President Jimmy Carter and his family took an Evelyn Wood course at the White House, bringing renewed attention to speed reading.
Evelyn Wood passed away on August 26, 1995, in Tucson, Arizona, at the age of 86. Her contributions to the field of reading remain significant, and her methods continue to be taught and practiced. Wood's papers are archived at the Utah State Historical Society, preserving her legacy for future generations. Her life story is a testament to the power of curiosity and innovation in education.
