As we consider the past year, a curated list of outstanding long-form stories emerges. These narratives delve into intricate themes including political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
The Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he still move millions of books. It raises a pertinent query: Has the author become an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route out of prison was to join the government forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as radically rewriting the narrative of our species. However, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent heated controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest moments, people rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable medical remedy – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An extremely rich country has risen as a major player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the exact nature of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
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 very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the prospect that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life might turn around. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could possess the key to who wins the global AI race.
The best narratives
