I've always said I like the Zinn book, but that it's not the be-all-end-all of bike mechanics books. So I'm curious, what makes you reluctant to get it?

My suggestion is the same as my opening post: Go to the library, check out a few books, and take them for a test-read. Then go to the book store and buy the one you find most helpful. Start by looking at the sections about the kind of repairs that are just above your level. Do you understand the instructions? If yes, it's a good book. If no, keep on looking.