As we look back on the past year, a selection of exceptional long-form stories shines. Such narratives probe complex themes from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. While numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It prompts a pressing question: Has he turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might now cost him his life.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the history of our species. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated argument has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is this person really a new person, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, individuals turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an consistent medical end – until potentially now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the uppermost levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to get wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has become a key force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the precise truth of what happened is still somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered enormous amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his situation could improve. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The finest narratives
