A Top Long-Form Reads of 2025: A Compendium of Profound Writing

Upon consider the year gone by, a selection of remarkable feature-length pieces emerges. Such narratives explore multifaceted subjects from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.

The Enigmatic Author and the Conscience of a Nation

An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It raises a pressing query: Has he become an supporter for the Kremlin?

Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War

The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.

The Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings

The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our species. But, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.

The British Cult That Operated in the Open

Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.

The Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights

A great many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.

Challenging a Country's Identity

A film tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is she truly reformed, and is the director's true motives?

The Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains

From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging times, individuals rely on him to bring back normalcy.

Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?

Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?

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

Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.

The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics

A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the uppermost levels of the state.

The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side

With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get suspicious.

A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub

An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a key player on the world stage, working to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?

An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Summitry

Extremely disliked at home, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.

Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case

How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?

An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret

When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.

A Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers

When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the precise truth of the events remains partially shrouded.

A "Genius" of the Online Economy

He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?

Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas

With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?

One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution

When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.

A Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection

In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the secret to who wins the global AI race.

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Cynthia Jacobs
Cynthia Jacobs

Elena Hartwell is a sustainability advocate and environmental writer passionate about green living solutions.