I have this book and ive got to say its probably the only project i didnt do. (the wagon, right?) I did learn the very basics of maya from this book but Ive got to say watching many other tutorials got me where i am now in maya. (not great but above average as far as modeling goes) As far as the boolean operation in that tut goes, he doesnt clean it up and is satisfied in what results it gives him. Like i said, the book INTRODUCES you to maya, it doesnt really delve into alot of detail. That being said I would recommend the book to learn the basics, then move on to the next level. Good Luck!