I remember reading it in 2005.
Yes, I think would have helped the film. Almost anything that would have developed the characters more would have enhanced the fiilm. It's been awhile, but I'm pretty sure there was more about Yoda, communing with Qui Gon's spirit in the novel too. I know that was cut from the film, but I really though it was needed in the film since force ghosts are such an important part of the original trilogy.