A new publisher, Tankograd, offers this 36 page softcover book packed with 1 color photo on cover, 93 black and white photos, 9 1/76th scale plans, 7 1/25th scale plans of details, and 36 illustrations from various manuals.  In a few words, it's FABULOUS!
The history of the IS tanks have been discussed for quite some time.  
I remember that, back in 1994, I had to read Polish and Russian sources to get the background needed for my IS-2m model.  I also read about the various recovery variants produced.  
However, when the histories were translated, no one covered these vehicles.  At a time when we have kits of the Famo, Bergepanther, M32, M88, and Bergepanzer IV in plastic, I was surprised that Dragon didn't release a recovery variant and join the ranks of Tamiya, AFV Club, Italeri and CMK.
Now anyone has all the information needed to convert Dragon's kits to something more unusual and in vogue.
Highly recommended!  
I purchased my copy from the US distributor, Eastern Front Hobbies(bob.lessels@mindspring.com)