As we consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories emerges. These accounts explore intricate themes including geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with biting satires on power. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to move millions of books. It raises a pertinent query: Has the author become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the history of our human race. However, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the director's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest moments, individuals turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an effective treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has become a key player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of the events is still partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away huge amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the prospect that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life could improve. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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