Upon consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. These pieces probe complex subjects ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Although several of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of books. It raises a pressing question: Has he evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now get him killed.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely re-writing the history of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. However, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex questions: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to restore order.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable treatment end – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the very highest levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may possess the key to who wins the global AI race.
The finest narratives
