"Far From Moscow" by Vasili Azhayev is a novel that portrays the lives of Soviet builders working on a construction project in the Far East during World War II. Born and raised in a village in the Moscow Region, Azhayev himself had experience working in various roles before pursuing writing.The story follows characters like engineers Beridze and Kovshov, and construction chief Batmanov, as they lead the project amidst the challenges of war. The novel depicts their determination and patriotism as they work to lay an oil pipeline to aid the war effort.Azhayev's narrative captures the camaraderie and resilience of the Soviet people, including the youth led by Komsomol organizer Kolya Smirnov and tele-communications engineer Tanya Vasilchenko. The novel also highlights the involvement of the native Nanai people in the construction efforts.Through a diverse cast of characters, Azhayev explores themes of teamwork, sacrifice, and the socialist spirit. The novel received acclaim for its realistic portrayal of Soviet life and was awarded the Stalin Prize.Outside of his literary endeavors, Azhayev was involved in public work and served in various capacities within the Union of Soviet Writers. "Far From Moscow" continues to be celebrated for its portrayal of Soviet heroism and unity in the face of adversity.Translated from the Russian By R. ProkofievaIllustrations By M.K. CorshmanDesigned By A. P. RadishchevWinner of Stalin Prize  1948Chapter One. The Main Achievement 7Chapter Two. Let There Be Light 75Chapter Three. How the Pipe Line Was Laid 106Chapter Four. Batmanov Pays Compliments 137Chapter Five. The Builders' Workdays 169Chapter Six. Taisin—the Abode of Gods 215Chapter Seven. What the Spring Brought 236Chapter Eight. Sad Tidings 270Chapter Nine. Between Island and Mainland 293Chapter Ten. The Legend of the Bogatyrs 317Chapter Eleven. Zina Returns 347Chapter Twelve. An Anxious Morning 382Chapter Thirteen. Reporting to the Homeland 411Chapter Fourteen. To Moscow 431