A Best Feature Reads of the Year: A Compendium of Compelling Writing

While we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional feature-length articles shines. These narratives probe intricate themes from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.

The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country

An author rose to fame in the nineties with biting satires on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of books. It prompts a key question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?

Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict

The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only route out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may still cost him his life.

The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins

The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely changing the history of our human race. But, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent bitter argument has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.

A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had committed.

A Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights

A great many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.

Breaking a Nation's Self-Image

A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks complex queries: Is this person really changed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?

A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains

From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, people rely on him to bring back order.

Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Burdened by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy

Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an effective medical end – until possibly now.

The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government

A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the uppermost levels of government.

An English Professional With a Crooked Secret

With his sharp mind and sterling background, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get wary.

A Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Center

An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?

An Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry

Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.

During the Court Case of a Tragic Case

What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?

An End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning

When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.

A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women

When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.

A "Mozart" of the Online Economy

He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and showered vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?

Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean

With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to go?

A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness

As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life could improve. I was tragically misplaced.

The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection

In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.

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