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Safe and Sound: A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair
#1 New York Times Bestseller
Don’t panic—Mercury Stardust, AKA The Trans Handy Ma’am is here to help!
For too many people, the simple act of contacting a plumber or repair person can feel like a game of chance. As a transwoman and a professional maintenance technician, Mercury Stardust has discovered (the hard way) that we live in a world with much to fear. If you've ever felt panicked about opening your home to strangers in order to fix a maintenance issue, this book is for you.
Renting a home can be a complex process—from finding a safe and affordable space, to hiring help for moving in and out, and of course, managing any repairs that come up during your stay.
You deserve to feel empowered to take matters into your own hands—and it’s not as hard as you might think. In this book, Mercury will show you how to tackle the projects that need improvement in your home—from how to properly fix a clog in your bathroom sink and safely hang things on your walls to patching small and medium drywall holes.
Safe and Sound
Remember—a little bit of knowledge can go a long way toward making you feel more safe and in control of your own life.
Don’t panic—Mercury Stardust, AKA The Trans Handy Ma’am is here to help!
For too many people, the simple act of contacting a plumber or repair person can feel like a game of chance. As a transwoman and a professional maintenance technician, Mercury Stardust has discovered (the hard way) that we live in a world with much to fear. If you've ever felt panicked about opening your home to strangers in order to fix a maintenance issue, this book is for you.
Renting a home can be a complex process—from finding a safe and affordable space, to hiring help for moving in and out, and of course, managing any repairs that come up during your stay.
You deserve to feel empowered to take matters into your own hands—and it’s not as hard as you might think. In this book, Mercury will show you how to tackle the projects that need improvement in your home—from how to properly fix a clog in your bathroom sink and safely hang things on your walls to patching small and medium drywall holes.
Safe and Sound
Remember—a little bit of knowledge can go a long way toward making you feel more safe and in control of your own life.
224 pages, Hardcover
Published August 22, 2023
233 people are currently reading
2273 people want to read
About the author
Mercury Stardust
3 books67 followersMercury Stardust is a burlesque performer and property manager living and working in Wisconsin. You can see her as Trans Handy Ma'am on TikTok at @mercurystardust
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
August 24, 2023
FYI y’all, someone is making a fake version of Mercury’s book: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CrjE3R...
Make sure to check the publisher is DK (not independently), that it has like 240-ish pages(the fake one is much less), and check for the author name just above the book tile on the cover before pre-ordering!
Make sure to check the publisher is DK (not independently), that it has like 240-ish pages(the fake one is much less), and check for the author name just above the book tile on the cover before pre-ordering!
November 28, 2023
OK I haven't actually READ this book. This isn't really the kind of book that you just read cover to cover. It's a resource. But I have flipped through it quite a bit since receiving it yesterday, and read some sections and it is, just like Mercury, utterly delightful.
First, I want to mention that this book may be sub-titled "A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair" but "Safe and Sound" is far more accurate to what is actually in here. This book covers A LOT more than home repair. From the process and need-to-knows around even FINDING a place to live (including figuring out finances and understanding leases), to maintenance advice, fixing things advice and how-to's, to advice around what essentials to have on hand in case of emergency, to how to be safe when someone else is in your home doing work, to how to move out and get your deposit back, to tenant laws and legal resources. It's got info on the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Fair Housing Act, and Equal Access Rule, LGBTQ+ information, anti-discrimination info, and info on staying safe in your community, etc. It's got everything INCLUDING (how to fix/unclog/replace) the kitchen sink.
The layout is great. Even the table of contents is well thought out and helpful, with drill-down topics that make finding the specific info you need very easy. There's also an index at the back of the book in case the comprehensive table of contents doesn't quite cover that one thing you need. (What even IS a Hercules hook??)
There are lovely illustrations of Mercury herself looking like a freaking superhero, AND cute and helpful technical illustrations of the tools, and process for completing whatever fix you might need to do.
And there's a plethora of tips, new terminology that you might need to know, very clear instructions, and FYI stuff that might come up. Plus helpful reminders, like to make sure you turn off the water BEFORE trying to change the toilet flush thingy. But my guess is that even if you didn't, the book would empathize with you for the mess, let you know that it's OK and even expected to make mistakes when learning something new, and sprout some handy towels to help clean up. That's how Mercury's book rolls. Probably.
It's chock full of positivity and encouragement, and more than a few emotional resets that encourage you to be proud of what you're accomplishing in learning new skills and trying new things. For the record, this is one of my absolute favorite things about Mercury Stardust. She's so consistently positive and encouraging and helpful, and that quality has translated beautifully to this book... it's like having a mini-cheering section for learning how to unclog your shower drain sitting on your bookshelf. AND I LOVE IT.
Anyway, I really do love her, and yes I did pre-order this book in order to support her and what she's doing to help and bring positivity and kindness into the universe, but I also really do love the product itself as well.
The only criticism that I have about it is that it's hardcover not spiral-bound so it would stay open to a certain page while you use it. Jeez, if it had that, this review would probably start raining sparkly sprinkles of joy on all who read it. LOL
If you live anywhere that may need maintenance or repairs, or you just like supporting awesome people, pick up this book. :D
First, I want to mention that this book may be sub-titled "A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair" but "Safe and Sound" is far more accurate to what is actually in here. This book covers A LOT more than home repair. From the process and need-to-knows around even FINDING a place to live (including figuring out finances and understanding leases), to maintenance advice, fixing things advice and how-to's, to advice around what essentials to have on hand in case of emergency, to how to be safe when someone else is in your home doing work, to how to move out and get your deposit back, to tenant laws and legal resources. It's got info on the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Fair Housing Act, and Equal Access Rule, LGBTQ+ information, anti-discrimination info, and info on staying safe in your community, etc. It's got everything INCLUDING (how to fix/unclog/replace) the kitchen sink.
The layout is great. Even the table of contents is well thought out and helpful, with drill-down topics that make finding the specific info you need very easy. There's also an index at the back of the book in case the comprehensive table of contents doesn't quite cover that one thing you need. (What even IS a Hercules hook??)
There are lovely illustrations of Mercury herself looking like a freaking superhero, AND cute and helpful technical illustrations of the tools, and process for completing whatever fix you might need to do.
And there's a plethora of tips, new terminology that you might need to know, very clear instructions, and FYI stuff that might come up. Plus helpful reminders, like to make sure you turn off the water BEFORE trying to change the toilet flush thingy. But my guess is that even if you didn't, the book would empathize with you for the mess, let you know that it's OK and even expected to make mistakes when learning something new, and sprout some handy towels to help clean up. That's how Mercury's book rolls. Probably.
It's chock full of positivity and encouragement, and more than a few emotional resets that encourage you to be proud of what you're accomplishing in learning new skills and trying new things. For the record, this is one of my absolute favorite things about Mercury Stardust. She's so consistently positive and encouraging and helpful, and that quality has translated beautifully to this book... it's like having a mini-cheering section for learning how to unclog your shower drain sitting on your bookshelf. AND I LOVE IT.
Anyway, I really do love her, and yes I did pre-order this book in order to support her and what she's doing to help and bring positivity and kindness into the universe, but I also really do love the product itself as well.
The only criticism that I have about it is that it's hardcover not spiral-bound so it would stay open to a certain page while you use it. Jeez, if it had that, this review would probably start raining sparkly sprinkles of joy on all who read it. LOL
If you live anywhere that may need maintenance or repairs, or you just like supporting awesome people, pick up this book. :D
Want to read
April 4, 2023Yessssssssssssssssssssss. Mercury is a queen.
August 5, 2023
Safe and Sound is a brilliant and much needed book on home repair for renters, but it could be equally useful for homeowners who need a helping hand too. Mercury Stardust is a ray of sunshine and her book is such a wonderful gift to people looking for solutions to problems they could fix if they only knew how. Like she often says, “You’re worth the time it takes to learn a new skill.” And armed with this book, readers can.
August 19, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this
This is a must have if you are just beginning your home repair journey, this book is geared towards renters but anyone with a home project can use it.
Reading this is like getting a big hug and being told “you got this.” The emotional resets at the end of each chapter really help to keep you from becoming overwhelmed with your repair and lack of knowledge.
The only thing I don’t like is that there are QR codes for more information. I’ve read books before that have links or websites but when I got to see the additional information the website no longer works. I want to read a book with all the information in it.
This is a must have if you are just beginning your home repair journey, this book is geared towards renters but anyone with a home project can use it.
Reading this is like getting a big hug and being told “you got this.” The emotional resets at the end of each chapter really help to keep you from becoming overwhelmed with your repair and lack of knowledge.
The only thing I don’t like is that there are QR codes for more information. I’ve read books before that have links or websites but when I got to see the additional information the website no longer works. I want to read a book with all the information in it.
October 6, 2023
Mercury Stardust is such a bright light and this book is reflective of that. It takes something as intimidating as home improvements and repairs and then breaks it all down in such a calming, easy to understand kind of way. I absolutely adore how she includes "Emotional Resets" at the end of each section. She easily identified the feelings you might be experiencing and shares some personal insights about her own struggles and what helped her through that. For instance, in a section that talks about washers and dryers and other luxury home appliance items, she talks about her being homeless for a time and the complexity that came with being a handyperson while seeing everyone else's "stuff" that they had in their life. And how easy it was to be tempted to compare what they possessed and what she didn't have at the time. She wanted the people who didn't have those items in their home to know that she sees them and understands. I found that absolutely touching and beautiful in a how-to home repair book.
I have a house but know absolutely nothing about home repairs or improvements. This book, along with the QR codes that she provides was everything that you'd be hoping for.
Oh and the artwork was fantastic.
Overall, I can't say one thing I'd change about this publication. Mercury and the whole team behind this release simply nailed it.
Thank you to NetGalley and DK publishing for allowing me to receive this E-ARC so that I may share my honest feedback and review.
I have a house but know absolutely nothing about home repairs or improvements. This book, along with the QR codes that she provides was everything that you'd be hoping for.
Oh and the artwork was fantastic.
Overall, I can't say one thing I'd change about this publication. Mercury and the whole team behind this release simply nailed it.
Thank you to NetGalley and DK publishing for allowing me to receive this E-ARC so that I may share my honest feedback and review.
October 15, 2023
I just did a meet and greet at my favorite semi-local (to me) bookstore! I got an autographed copy of Mercury’s book Safe and Sound - the pictures are beautiful and the table of contents is fantastic - this book will be used for future household calamities!
Mercury was so kind and personable, and a pleasure to meet! 💜
Mercury was so kind and personable, and a pleasure to meet! 💜
January 14, 2024
I've been a tenant for the past two decades, and this is the first book I've seen about how to do renter-appropriate repairs. Often it's said that tenants should get the landlord or property manager to fix all issues, but sometimes it takes them weeks to address a minor but annoying problem. More recently, leases sometimes charge a "repair deductible" of $75 per visit to cut down on "frivolous requests," in which case, replacing a $5 toilet flapper on your own is a no-brainer. Many of the repairs in this book span the range of "cheap and easy enough to be worth a shot" repairs.
The technical advice in this book is great. Tasks are broken down into easy-to-follow, well-explained steps. The diagrams and illustrations are also very helpful. The author gives suggestions of brands and specific types of tools or equipment that is well-suited for making repairs, while also being budget-conscious. There weren't a lot of unnecessary or confusing steps in any of the repair processes covered in the book.
The thing that got really annoying about this book was the fixation on affirmations and encouragement. Like, thanks for believing in me when I don't believe in myself, author, but because of books like yours and sites like YouTube, I feel pretty confident that I can replace a doorknob without a lot of hand-holding. It seems disingenuous to insist that you're proud of the reader for attempting to unclog their own toilet, like, this is a case where encouragement almost veers into condescension.
At the end of each chapter, there's a section about Emotional Resetting, and in several of them, the author apologizes for mentioning content that might make the reader sad, like the existence of washing machines that aren't in their apartments, or the mere act of having to consider things like pest control. Frankly, this is insane and too walking-on-eggshells for me. I think most mentally healthy adults are capable of understanding that their living space might not have every amenity, and that any house or apartment, regardless of age or location, can be afflicted with mice or mold or roaches or fleas. These things, while annoying, are part and parcel of living anywhere, but are certainly more common in higher density housing. I think the author is trying to be earnest, but across the book, it's overdone to the point of being virtue signally.
I also do like how the author points out that yes, your landlord will probably try and rip you off at move-out and how to mitigate that, even though you probably won't be wholly successful.
The technical advice in this book is great. Tasks are broken down into easy-to-follow, well-explained steps. The diagrams and illustrations are also very helpful. The author gives suggestions of brands and specific types of tools or equipment that is well-suited for making repairs, while also being budget-conscious. There weren't a lot of unnecessary or confusing steps in any of the repair processes covered in the book.
The thing that got really annoying about this book was the fixation on affirmations and encouragement. Like, thanks for believing in me when I don't believe in myself, author, but because of books like yours and sites like YouTube, I feel pretty confident that I can replace a doorknob without a lot of hand-holding. It seems disingenuous to insist that you're proud of the reader for attempting to unclog their own toilet, like, this is a case where encouragement almost veers into condescension.
At the end of each chapter, there's a section about Emotional Resetting, and in several of them, the author apologizes for mentioning content that might make the reader sad, like the existence of washing machines that aren't in their apartments, or the mere act of having to consider things like pest control. Frankly, this is insane and too walking-on-eggshells for me. I think most mentally healthy adults are capable of understanding that their living space might not have every amenity, and that any house or apartment, regardless of age or location, can be afflicted with mice or mold or roaches or fleas. These things, while annoying, are part and parcel of living anywhere, but are certainly more common in higher density housing. I think the author is trying to be earnest, but across the book, it's overdone to the point of being virtue signally.
I also do like how the author points out that yes, your landlord will probably try and rip you off at move-out and how to mitigate that, even though you probably won't be wholly successful.
August 8, 2023
Safe and Sound is one of the least intimidating DIY/home repair books I have read. Mercury Stardust does an excellent job balancing explanations and the overwhelming pressure of being a renter today. There are breaks in between chapters with mental check-ins and plenty of humor sprinkled in tutorials. Stardust teaches you not only how to make repairs but also informs you of your renter rights and even some guidance on how to find a place to live with empathy and compassion. I feel this book would make an excellent gift to anyone starting out on their own, experienced renters, and even new homeowners.
Thank you Mercury for helping me fix my toilet a few months ago and thank you for NetGally for giving me the opportunity to review this before the release date. This will certainly be a great tool for anyone renting.
Thank you Mercury for helping me fix my toilet a few months ago and thank you for NetGally for giving me the opportunity to review this before the release date. This will certainly be a great tool for anyone renting.
November 16, 2023
Unquestionably the prettiest home-repair guide one will ever have on their shelves, and the kindest, most compassionate, too!
This would make a wonderful gift to anyone living by themselves for the first time, or struggling in any way with taking care of their home. Mercury's signature combination of practical advices, humorous remarks, and comforting reminders translates very well in book form, and it just feels nice to have a book you can reach for to figure out what your issues might be, and how to fix them.
This would make a wonderful gift to anyone living by themselves for the first time, or struggling in any way with taking care of their home. Mercury's signature combination of practical advices, humorous remarks, and comforting reminders translates very well in book form, and it just feels nice to have a book you can reach for to figure out what your issues might be, and how to fix them.
March 10, 2024
This is definitely a book everyone should have! I checked mine out from the library but am buying a copy for myself. Mercury really does a great job of covering such a large topic in small digestible pieces and makes daunting tasks seem less intimidating. It is a great way to gain exposure and familiarize yourself with home improvement skills for when an emergency were to come up or to prevent said emergency from occurring.
I think it would be a good idea to follow up on some of the information online/websites. But it definitely helps with knowing what you’re talking about/looking for 🌟
I think it would be a good idea to follow up on some of the information online/websites. But it definitely helps with knowing what you’re talking about/looking for 🌟
Want to read
April 5, 2023I need everyone to go pre-order this book immediately!
October 7, 2023
I wish I had had this book when I was 20, or at least three apartments ago. It's incredibly well-written and well-organized, thoughtful, and significantly, absolutely non-judgemental about not knowing exactly what you need to do to take care of your living space. Mercury is bold, rambunctious and funny in her TikToks, and this book is calm, smart and kind about making a home of your own. I am impressed and thankful for the whole package.
August 10, 2023
I was so excited to read this book because I'm a fan of Mercury Stardust's TikTok/Instagram videos. This book is about how to maintain and fix appliances in your living space. There is heavy emphasis on rental friendly repairs and Stardust tells you what activities you should leave to the professionals. At the end of each chapter, there is an emotional wrap-up. I really appreciated this because doing home repairs by yourself can be stressful and intimidating, but Stardust assures the readers that they are capable of doing it. Another aspect I liked is the emphasis on outside research. She repeats that you will become more knowledgeable about repairs by researching them online from a large variety of resources. There are beautiful graphics in this book as well as useful diagrams. This is not the type of book I would usually read, but it seemed very well written and beginner friendly.
August 21, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book, publishing tomorrow!
Extremely useful book on some basic home repairs aimed at renters. I just moved out of a rental into my own place (hooray!) but a lot of the basic home maintenance tips still apply. Also loved that chapters were included on move-in/move-out, home safety, and tenants rights resources. It wasn't a perfect book for me, but I think that may come down to my personal learning style-with some of the projects, I feel like watching a video on YouTube of someone walking me through it could have worked better, but that's just for me personally! Best of all was Mercury's constant reassurance and emotional resets throughout the chapters. Definitely recommended and not only for renters, but for anyone looking for an inclusive, welcoming look at home repair and maintenance skills.
Extremely useful book on some basic home repairs aimed at renters. I just moved out of a rental into my own place (hooray!) but a lot of the basic home maintenance tips still apply. Also loved that chapters were included on move-in/move-out, home safety, and tenants rights resources. It wasn't a perfect book for me, but I think that may come down to my personal learning style-with some of the projects, I feel like watching a video on YouTube of someone walking me through it could have worked better, but that's just for me personally! Best of all was Mercury's constant reassurance and emotional resets throughout the chapters. Definitely recommended and not only for renters, but for anyone looking for an inclusive, welcoming look at home repair and maintenance skills.
September 2, 2023
Mercury Stardust's compassionate approach to teaching home repair skills is like a warm hug, I so appreciated this tender and informative book.
April 30, 2024
Nice reference of how to fix shit but still get your security deposit back. I got this from the library but this is something better to own to use as a reference as needed. Like that there are QR code links to video instructions as well for most of the tips.
August 24, 2023
I was so excited for this book as a first time home owner who has had a life long relationship with moving in and out of apartments. I grew up with a single Mom who could have REALLY used a book like this while I was growing up, and I would have really benefited from her handing it to me when I moved out on my own! Mercury did not disappoint my high hopes and I know this will be a staple in my new home!
So let’s get to what I loved here! First of all I was drawn to this book for obvious reasons above but also because I’m a longtime follower of Mercury and big fan of her work on social media as the Trans Handy Mam. She is deeply relatable and always approaches her followers with a gentleness that makes you not only willing to learn something new without fear, but also excited to! I found that her voice transferred well into the pages, and you can easily feel her warmth coming through. Every explanation is easy to understand, and you aren’t expected to know it all! She gives step by step info from what to do when looking at a new rental, or what to do when you move in to gauge the construction of your new home but also great ways to connect with your new homes repair crew if that applies. She takes into consideration that not everyone can be forward, and gives advice for us shy anxious kids too so that we can still get answers in ways that still make us feel safe. The check lists were really great in my opinion as someone who would have gathered the info and made a list I love that she already did that for me. She breaks down building materials, safe decorating, how to fix basic things and when to know to call for help and who to call. She even explains what work orders are, and her willingness to break it all down reminds me of my Dads favorite sayings “there are no bad questions!” When I constantly call him for advice around my new home. I feel like I’ll be bugging him much less now that I have this book to help me learn more on my own! I really look forward to building my own toolkit with the chapter she gives us on how to build a basic set you will need and what it’s all for. I learned so much about faucets, toilets and showers I didn’t know and realized I really needed to know! She covers EVERYTHING and I mean everything, even how to find a stud in the wall and basic electrical!
I mean I could go on and on, this book is packed full of knowledge and a must have in my opinion. It will undoubtedly save people so much money, stress and anxiety by learning the basics from Mercury. Her endearing cartoon imagery will also bring a smile to your heart. I love how Mercury Stardust writes in a way that feels like your best friend is the one giving you much needed answers! (The emotional resets were also a nice touch) Safe and Sound truly makes me feel safer and sounder about being a first time home owner and I know it will be there in many situations to walk me through solutions going forward! This will definitely be a common gift for Christmas from me as well this year. Bravo Mercury, and THANK YOU!!
Thank you to NetGalley & DK publishers for the ebook in exchange for an honest review, I’m headed to buy the hardcover!
So let’s get to what I loved here! First of all I was drawn to this book for obvious reasons above but also because I’m a longtime follower of Mercury and big fan of her work on social media as the Trans Handy Mam. She is deeply relatable and always approaches her followers with a gentleness that makes you not only willing to learn something new without fear, but also excited to! I found that her voice transferred well into the pages, and you can easily feel her warmth coming through. Every explanation is easy to understand, and you aren’t expected to know it all! She gives step by step info from what to do when looking at a new rental, or what to do when you move in to gauge the construction of your new home but also great ways to connect with your new homes repair crew if that applies. She takes into consideration that not everyone can be forward, and gives advice for us shy anxious kids too so that we can still get answers in ways that still make us feel safe. The check lists were really great in my opinion as someone who would have gathered the info and made a list I love that she already did that for me. She breaks down building materials, safe decorating, how to fix basic things and when to know to call for help and who to call. She even explains what work orders are, and her willingness to break it all down reminds me of my Dads favorite sayings “there are no bad questions!” When I constantly call him for advice around my new home. I feel like I’ll be bugging him much less now that I have this book to help me learn more on my own! I really look forward to building my own toolkit with the chapter she gives us on how to build a basic set you will need and what it’s all for. I learned so much about faucets, toilets and showers I didn’t know and realized I really needed to know! She covers EVERYTHING and I mean everything, even how to find a stud in the wall and basic electrical!
I mean I could go on and on, this book is packed full of knowledge and a must have in my opinion. It will undoubtedly save people so much money, stress and anxiety by learning the basics from Mercury. Her endearing cartoon imagery will also bring a smile to your heart. I love how Mercury Stardust writes in a way that feels like your best friend is the one giving you much needed answers! (The emotional resets were also a nice touch) Safe and Sound truly makes me feel safer and sounder about being a first time home owner and I know it will be there in many situations to walk me through solutions going forward! This will definitely be a common gift for Christmas from me as well this year. Bravo Mercury, and THANK YOU!!
Thank you to NetGalley & DK publishers for the ebook in exchange for an honest review, I’m headed to buy the hardcover!
August 24, 2023
Mercury Stardust is my bestie! (Even if she doesn't know it.) After all, she wrote me a book! (She wrote all of us a book. You can be her bestie too. I'll share.)
I've had home repair guides before, usually produced by Home Depot or some other large corporation. And they're fine, as such guides go... heavy and dull and great for pressing flowers or holding down stacks of papers, but somewhat less than useful for guidance on actual home repairs. Thank goodness for YouTube, back in the day.
And then TikTok came along, and I met Mercury, and she has changed my life. I feel so empowered by her guidance, and by her genuine friendliness and kindness. I've learned so so much from her.
So of course I preordered her book, and it arrived two days ago, and since then I've already fixed a broken toilet handle and installed a dishwasher and patched some drywall... all projects I've been meaning to get around to but have been dreading. Of course there's no real way to quantify how long these projects would have taken me if I hadn't had access to Mercury's guidance. Certainly it feels like I got through them in no time at all. And I can definitely qualify that I feel good about the work I've done, I felt empowered doing it, and I feel like I did it all with the help of a trusted friend... which is so much more fun anyway.
Added bonus: the book has QR codes that link to some of Mercury's videos, so it's almost like being able to summon her on demand. SO COOL. I love it!
Please, do yourself a favor and buy this book immediately. Whether you own or rent a home, Mercury's advice and support are going to be life-changing for you.
P.S. Mercury, I am grateful for you every day, for more reasons than you can possibly imagine.
I've had home repair guides before, usually produced by Home Depot or some other large corporation. And they're fine, as such guides go... heavy and dull and great for pressing flowers or holding down stacks of papers, but somewhat less than useful for guidance on actual home repairs. Thank goodness for YouTube, back in the day.
And then TikTok came along, and I met Mercury, and she has changed my life. I feel so empowered by her guidance, and by her genuine friendliness and kindness. I've learned so so much from her.
So of course I preordered her book, and it arrived two days ago, and since then I've already fixed a broken toilet handle and installed a dishwasher and patched some drywall... all projects I've been meaning to get around to but have been dreading. Of course there's no real way to quantify how long these projects would have taken me if I hadn't had access to Mercury's guidance. Certainly it feels like I got through them in no time at all. And I can definitely qualify that I feel good about the work I've done, I felt empowered doing it, and I feel like I did it all with the help of a trusted friend... which is so much more fun anyway.
Added bonus: the book has QR codes that link to some of Mercury's videos, so it's almost like being able to summon her on demand. SO COOL. I love it!
Please, do yourself a favor and buy this book immediately. Whether you own or rent a home, Mercury's advice and support are going to be life-changing for you.
P.S. Mercury, I am grateful for you every day, for more reasons than you can possibly imagine.
June 30, 2025
I’m not her target audience per se (I own my house), but I was a renter for years, and the information in this book would have been invaluable to me. It’s still very useful as a how-to for homeowners too, and it gave me tips and tricks on minor repairs, which is great because I should be able to do that stuff myself. Mercury explains everything in a straightforward, easy way to understand, and she gives budget-friendly tips and alternatives, which is great. She’s also got extra info on renters’ rights, what you should do for moving in/out and documenting everything, and what you can do yourself and what should be left up to maintenance, which is extremely helpful for the renters out there.
Also, Mercury reminds me of Mister Rogers. She’s so gentle and caring about the reader and wanting to make sure you know it’s okay if you’re overwhelmed, but she’s proud of you for trying your best. The world needs more positive affirmations like theirs! This is an excellent reference book and I think everyone should have it on hand. 4.5 ⭐️
Also, Mercury reminds me of Mister Rogers. She’s so gentle and caring about the reader and wanting to make sure you know it’s okay if you’re overwhelmed, but she’s proud of you for trying your best. The world needs more positive affirmations like theirs! This is an excellent reference book and I think everyone should have it on hand. 4.5 ⭐️
September 10, 2023
I never thought I’d EVER say that a “handyman/woman” book would be fun, but man was I wrong!
I saw the name of the author and one-clicked this gem. Known as The Trans Handy Ma’am, Mercury Stardust kept me entertained with her fun vocabulary while also giving amazing tutorials on basics home repairs that can be used for both homeowners but especially renters.
I just loved the whole tone of this one. It was fun and light and supportive and had almost everything you need to know about home upkeep.
ARC provided by publisher and NetGalley.
I saw the name of the author and one-clicked this gem. Known as The Trans Handy Ma’am, Mercury Stardust kept me entertained with her fun vocabulary while also giving amazing tutorials on basics home repairs that can be used for both homeowners but especially renters.
I just loved the whole tone of this one. It was fun and light and supportive and had almost everything you need to know about home upkeep.
ARC provided by publisher and NetGalley.
September 4, 2023
This is an incredibly friendly home repair guide with excellent tutorials for handling a variety of basic repairs and great renter information like how to find a place to live, the move-in and move-out processes, and working with building techs and landlords on apartment problems. Mercury's personality shines through each page, and I love that she included QR codes to short videos in the emotional reset sections.
August 1, 2023
Getting the email that I was approved to read an arc of this made my day! So excited for this to be out in the world for others to read as well.
August 9, 2024
Very thoughtful in the framing of each section!
August 31, 2024
I bookmarked this whole thing, time to fix up my apartment !!
July 7, 2025
Yes! We are worth the time it takes to learn a new skill! Mercury is a great teacher, and I loved the QR codes to her videos. I only wished there were more!
August 14, 2023
Wow this book is so good! Totally worth it as someone who doesn’t know much about home repair
Im so grateful for mercury !
Im so grateful for mercury !
November 12, 2023
I requested this book for our library's collection because every renter should have access to a copy. Mercury's podcast is also an invaluable resource, not only her expertise in rental repairs and tenant rights but her compassionate delivery and clear, empowering guidance. Building a home is a really significant, meaningful thing to me, so the language she uses around it emotionally resonates with me too. And the gorgeous illustrations! I just love it to pieces.
October 4, 2023
Safe and Sound: A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair by Mercury Stardust is a nonfiction resource. For too many people, the simple act of contacting a plumber or repair person can feel like a game of chance. As a transwoman and a professional maintenance technician, Mercury Stardust has discovered (the hard way) that we live in a world with much to fear. If you've ever felt panicked about opening your home to strangers in order to fix a maintenance issue, this book is for you. Renting a home can be a complex process—from finding a safe and affordable space, to hiring help for moving in and out, and of course, managing any repairs that come up during your stay. You deserve to feel empowered to take matters into your own hands—and it’s not as hard as you might think. In this book, Mercury will show you how to tackle the projects that need improvement in your home—from how to properly fix a clog in your bathroom sink and safely hang things on your walls to patching small and medium drywall holes. Remember—a little bit of knowledge can go a long way toward making you feel more safe and in control of your own life.
Safe and Sound is a great resource for renters, that have rules and conditions that they need to follow in their lease. The book offers useful information about renters rights, as well as support and encouragement that readers can do new and challenging things. I found the text to be well written, easy to follow, and strangely comforting. I loved the gentle tone of the writing, and the space for emotional resets. I have followed Mercury Stardust on Instagram for awhile, and I was thrilled to get a copy of this book via NetGalley. I have always leaned towards trying to fix the little problems in my apartments, now house, myself and this is resource I wish I had back when I first was on my own. I think that homeowners who would rather tackle the doable repairs themselves rather than invite other people into their space unless they have to could get a great deal from this book as well, even if apartment hunting and all they trials that go with it are not something they need.
Safe and Sound is a well written and valuable resource for renters, and a good book to have on hand for anyone that might need to deal with a household emergency. I will be buying copies of this book for all the young adults in my extended family when they are ready to strike out on their own.
Safe and Sound is a great resource for renters, that have rules and conditions that they need to follow in their lease. The book offers useful information about renters rights, as well as support and encouragement that readers can do new and challenging things. I found the text to be well written, easy to follow, and strangely comforting. I loved the gentle tone of the writing, and the space for emotional resets. I have followed Mercury Stardust on Instagram for awhile, and I was thrilled to get a copy of this book via NetGalley. I have always leaned towards trying to fix the little problems in my apartments, now house, myself and this is resource I wish I had back when I first was on my own. I think that homeowners who would rather tackle the doable repairs themselves rather than invite other people into their space unless they have to could get a great deal from this book as well, even if apartment hunting and all they trials that go with it are not something they need.
Safe and Sound is a well written and valuable resource for renters, and a good book to have on hand for anyone that might need to deal with a household emergency. I will be buying copies of this book for all the young adults in my extended family when they are ready to strike out on their own.
September 2, 2023
I was able to read this (admittedly skimming some portions) in one sitting and came away with an improved understanding bb of the fundamentals of keeping our living spaces safe and healthy for ourselves and other occupants (including tips for caregivers and pet owners).
I got insights into some of my own issues (such as the joys of appliance maintenance and repair) as well as particular steps for preparing for some of the scary situations we can find ourselves in a sometimes dangerous or unpredictable world.
I highly recommend this guide for literally anyone, particularly those that have anxieties about the often overwhelming nature of home maintenance. Particularly comforting were the frequent reminders to breathe and encouragement that we can often do a lot more than we think we can (and friendly reminders that knowing how and when to contact experts).
I got insights into some of my own issues (such as the joys of appliance maintenance and repair) as well as particular steps for preparing for some of the scary situations we can find ourselves in a sometimes dangerous or unpredictable world.
I highly recommend this guide for literally anyone, particularly those that have anxieties about the often overwhelming nature of home maintenance. Particularly comforting were the frequent reminders to breathe and encouragement that we can often do a lot more than we think we can (and friendly reminders that knowing how and when to contact experts).
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