While we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. Such narratives probe intricate themes from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp satires on power. While many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. It poses a key query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only way out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing bitter controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest hours, people rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an effective treatment solution – until possibly now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology influence the very highest levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and sterling background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get uneasy.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his situation might change for the better. I was sadly mistaken.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could possess the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best stories
