Upon reflect on the past year, a selection of remarkable long-form stories emerges. Such narratives probe intricate subjects from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. While several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It prompts a pressing question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely changing the history of our species. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
A great many supporters expected that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is this person really changed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest times, individuals depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment solution – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas influence the highest echelons of the state.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and sterling credentials, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the exact truth of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and showered huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life might improve. I was sadly misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
