Oh, yes I did! An attempt to explain the bizarre tradition of the British Christmas pantomime.
Current Events
The Cult That Promises to Cure Addiction
For 50 years, Enthusiastic Sobriety programs have offered to help teenagers kick drugs and alcohol. But former followers say ES doesn’t save lives—it destroys them.
What Happened to Milad? A Palestinian Father Searches for His Son.
One man’s quest to find his son lays bare the reality of Palestinian life under Israeli rule.
‘Can You Imagine How That Felt?’: Blake Bailey’s Predations, As Told By His Students
The inside story of author Blake Bailey’s grooming of middle-school girls.
The Syrian Rebels Who Found Refuge in Books
In a town under siege from Assad’s regime, a small group built a library from books rescued from the rubble.
“People are dying waiting”
“Miguel Jr. and Jeannette are troubled that Miguel’s doctors didn’t present ECMO as an option, and then resisted the idea when the family suggested it.”
The Silencing of #MeToo Reporting in Germany
How an HIV specialist in Germany is using media law to erase reporting of sexual abuse allegations against him.
What Happened to Cruise Ship Workers Once the Passengers Were Gone?
At the start of the COVID-19 outbreak, cruise companies “went to great lengths to repatriate vacationers.” But for crew members, it was a different story.
Neighborhood Watch: The Strange Aftermath of a ‘Karen’ Encounter
In a progressive New Jersey community, racial solidarity is complicated.
Longreads Best of 2020: Writing on COVID-19
Our top story picks in COVID-19 reporting this year.