As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of outstanding long-form stories shines. These pieces delve into complex topics including geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on power. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. It raises a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the narrative of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The resulting intense controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film following a remorseful master criminal as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is she genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an reliable medical end – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a significant force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the precise nature of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the prospect that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his situation could change for the better. That hope was tragically mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he might possess the key to which nation wins the global AI race.
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