We asked writers and editors to choose some of their favorite stories of the year in various categories. Here is the best in essays.
essays
Posted inHistory, Story
Watching a Fall
The allure and shame of watching America’s last public hanging.
Posted inBooks, Story
My Half-Sister’s Half a Life
Jeannie’s father never spoke of his daughter who had died at 16, the mysterious half-sister who shared her name.
Posted inEssays & Criticism, Nonfiction, Story, Unapologetic Women
On American Identity, the Election, and Family Members Who Support Trump
Nicole Chung reflects on the burden of engaging with racism and educating white people, including some in her own family.
Posted inEssays & Criticism, Nonfiction
My Mongolian Spot
An ephemeral birthmark is a rare gift, connecting me to generations spanning the centuries.
Posted inEditor's Pick
I’ve Found Her
Photos of an elderly French stranger has one Canadian writer examining the threads that connect people across continents and generations.
Posted inEditor's Pick
White Men
What do we get from our parents? An inheritance always comes with a tax. This essay is part of new collaboration with our friends at Topic.
Posted inEssays & Criticism, Nonfiction
White Men
What do we get from our parents? An inheritance always comes with a tax.
Posted inEssays & Criticism, Nonfiction, Story
White Men
What do we get from our parents? An inheritance always comes with a tax.