While we look back on the past year, a assortment of outstanding long-form stories shines. Such pieces probe complex topics from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. While numerous of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he still move millions of books. It raises a pressing question: Has the author become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path out of prison was to join the government military. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still get him killed.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous voters expected that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises complex queries: Is she truly changed, and what are the director's own methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals rely on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical end – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become uneasy.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich country has transformed into a major actor on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the full story of the events remains partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his situation might turn around. That hope was tragically wrong.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the secret to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
