Upon consider the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form stories emerges. These narratives delve into complex subjects from political machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It prompts a pressing question: Has he become an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still cost him his life.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the story of our human race. However, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking extent of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's true motives?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective medical solution – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology shape the very highest echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and sterling reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to get wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich country has become a significant force on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the full truth of the events remains partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life might improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
