Not the OP but I have read the book. It’s very unique and the story is told in some pretty strange ways. Parts are written backwards, in code, in the margin of the pages, etc. I think it’s a great experience and I’m glad to see it on that table. I’ve never read anything else like it.
I don’t think there would be anything harmful if you tried, but it might just flat out not work. My understanding is that the kernels that end up not popping probably just aren’t able to. There’s a certain amount of moisture that needs to be inside the kernels in order for them to pop. If that moisture level isn’t right then it won’t go off. So the fact that they didn’t already pop, probably means they can’t.