Upon consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. These narratives probe complex subjects ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. While several of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It prompts a pertinent query: Has he become an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may now cost him his life.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. But, some scholars was convinced. The resulting bitter controversy has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is she really reformed, and what are the director's true methods?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging times, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable medical solution – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the very highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a significant player on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of the procedures is still partially contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away vast sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could turn around. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
