I bought her main book offered by Taxi about 5, maybe 7 or 8 years ago. No I haven't written any hits. But the simple exposure to and collection of song forms with examples of hits of the day and over time has helped me write songs that I enjoy listening to. Narcissistic? Perhaps.

The main thing I have learned as a hobbyist songwriter is to practice it just like practicing an instrument. Try many different forms and styles. You can develop skills as well as ruts. Reading books like hers and applying the bits of learning helps to develop the discipline and skill and 'ear'.