Over the Counter #55

Well, the latest book to catch my eye this week as it passed over the library counter and under my scanner was There I Fixed It ( No, You Didn't) from the Cheezburger Network. The book is a product of the hugely popular website ThereIFixedIt.com. 

(And I have to admit - I read this one completely - it's addicting and my own DH has been known to 'fix' a few things with duct tape!)

From the publisher, Andrews McMeel:

"Whoever coined the phrase "A picture is worth a thousand words" clearly has not stumbled upon the Cheezburger Network's ThereIFixedIt.com. Here, a picture is worth countless inaudible gasps, and we're guessing more than a few quiet stares of disbelief.

There, I Fixed It (No, You Didn't) celebrates the kludge (a quick-and-dirty, clumsy, or inelegant-yet-effective solution to a problem, typically using parts that are cobbled together) in its many incarnations as presented on the popular Web site ThereIFixedIt.com. The book features over 200 full-color images of daily kludge winners, along with the signature witty commentary that characterizes typical reactions to the hilarious DIY disasters and work-arounds.

If you're still unsure as to what qualifies, we think the minivan held together by duct tape leaves little room for confusion. After all, in that guy's defense, multiple rolls of carefully affixed duct tape are certainly cheaper than a new coat of paint (just try to avoid puddles and rain).

Certain to generate bellyache-inducing revelry, There, I Fixed It (No, You Didn't) may even inspire you to fashion your very own kludge. Please note that we give extra points to those brave enough to merge an open flame with a propane gas tank and electrical wire. Bonus points if you can then make the item travel on wheels at speeds greater than 50 miles per hour. So, home enthusiasts, would-be inventors, and all who miserably failed engineering, kludge away with the Cheezburger Network's There, I Fixed It (No, You Didn't)."

(Over the Counter is a regular feature at A Bookworm's World. I've sadly come the realization that I cannot physically read every book that catches my interest as it crosses over my counter at the library. But... I can mention them and maybe one of them will catch your eye as well. See if your local library has them on their shelves!)