self-help books

Paul Ilechko wrote:

 > cutebutdesperate wrote:
 >
  >> Hi!
  >> Im doing a thesis on self-help books and whether they are harmful etc.
  >> I was wondering if anybody knew where I could get hold of an
  >> INDEPENDENT list of the top 50 bestsellers?? Also if anyone knew of
  >> previous research carried out in this field, it would be helpful.
  >> THANKS )
 >
 >
 > Self help books can be very useful - they burn well, and are often
 > heavy enough to hold a door open.


Of course, if they are heavy enough, they present a risk of injury if
dropped on your toe.


Many, many years ago, I decided to solve a plumbing problem myself, even
though I had never worked on plumbing before. There was a leak in the
supply to a toilet. So, I got a book and read it. No problem. I had
to open the wall and re-solder a connection. I bought a propane torch
and started in. And set the insulation on fire.

After putting out the fire, I removed the remaining insulation from the
wall and started again. But I just couldn't get the pipe to heat up
enough. After some investigation, I drained the water from the pipe.
It was conducting the heat away from the work site.

Now, I had used up the propane cannister with all that, so I had to get
a new one to finish the job. And I did and the soldering worked well.
At this point, however, I needed a new compression fitting at the valve
by the toilet. I got one, put it in, it worked fine, so I gave it one
more twist for good measure, and water started spraying all around.

Another trip to the store, another compression fitting, and all was well.


Francis A. Miniter<!-- ~MESSAGE_AFTER~ -->
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