I'm a self-teaching student, and trying to get myself forward, out of books.
I was recommended to try the pop piano book and theory books by mark Harrison.
I know that for developing proper skill there is no substitute to human teacher. But as far as method of learning, and understanding things properly, I would like to know, does anyone have experience with these books? What do piano teachers say about this method? Is there anything in these books I will not find in other teaching systems? or is there any reason not to use them? is there anything I should know before I start with them?
I have basic background, but been long playing by ear and improvising without understanding the concepts I found myself using. I'm interested in developing a more educated and stylistic approach.

Thank you.

I got that book a few weeks ago but haven't opened it yet. The reason is that I joined Piano Magic and have been working with that instead. Since you're saying you've been improvising without understanding the concepts (like me), I can recommend Piano Magic because that's exactly what it teaches. You learn how to figure out a melody and the chords you need to support it. After I get those basics down, I'll go back to the other books and courses I've bought and apply their teachings to this foundation. Just my 2 cents.