I really like it. No, I had never heard of this language. I was a computer programmer and really think students (especially gifted) should understand the breakdown of instructions. Most students do not have the patience so it is often not taught.

Taking something simple such as an addition instruction (such as the example forward and right) and breaking it down is different for the brain and sometimes tedious. http://el.media.mit.edu/Logo-foundation/logo/turtle.html

I have used Alice, which is object oriented programming and is free to download and learn. There are books one can order to accompany. It is wonderful and is directed towards middle to high school level. However, I think this is great for a younger gifted student. The tutorials are great so start with those.