Upon consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories shines. Such narratives delve into intricate themes from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. While many of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It poses a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still cost him his life.
The Bitter Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as completely re-writing the history of our species. But, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing heated controversy has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many voters hoped that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording poses difficult questions: Is she genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, individuals rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment end – until potentially now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas influence the highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get wary.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a key player on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During 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 the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered vast amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation could change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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