The Finest In-Depth Stories of the Year: A Collection of Compelling Writing
Upon look back on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable feature-length articles emerges. Such accounts probe complex themes from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a pressing query: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to join the government military. After 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as completely changing the history of our human race. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The resulting intense controversy has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is she really reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest moments, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable treatment end – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the very highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get wary.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has risen as a major actor on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full story of what happened is still partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and distributed vast amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the reality that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life could improve. I was sadly misplaced.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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