Well, it's an A5 format book, 96 pages, 25 of which are technical instructions and most of the other pages are half empty. If condensed, I would say, it will take 15 normal pages. Although, it is called "academic", it gives a very general outline of the ACADEMIC writing, absolutely insufficient for someone who needs a high score. No example of a real/ideal essay at all.
The book exactly corresponds to its title: these are just hints. Some of them are common places, although others are quite good. However,in my opinion, there are better hint books available on the market.
The good thing is there is a CD included. It has a video of a real speaking section and this one is authentic. A listening test section is also good and authentic. The writing task for an academic essay is unlikely to be met at a real test. The practice test is about typing your answers on the computer which differs from the good old paper and blunt pencil IELTS.
IMHO, the book could be used by the teachers as a supplement. Definitely, not a comprehensive study-book.