I didn't follow the program exactly, but it was influential in my training (and quick improvement) during my teen years.
It's a shame you stopped playing. I'm sure it would've been interesting to see how the program would have to adapt as you aimed for 2200 and beyond.
I googled this guy, and both the author of that book and this guy seem to have gone to MIT. So unless it's a huge coincidence, I'd say the answer is yes.