As we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding long-form pieces emerges. Such narratives delve into intricate subjects from political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of books. It poses a pressing query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of prison was to join the regime military. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the story of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent intense argument has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film following a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the director's true motives?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging times, people turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective treatment end – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the highest levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has become a significant actor on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full story of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life might turn around. I was tragically wrong.
A International AI Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the answers to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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