The “long read” has enjoyed renewed celebration lately, but the joy of long-form storytelling is nothing new to magazine lovers. Be they profiles of fascinating people or investigations into important issues, long reads have always been the backbone of the magazine experience, and that's certainly been the case at Chicago magazine.

We're proud of the stories we told you this year. As the year winds down, then, consider using the down time to enjoy some Chicago stories you may have missed.

The Voices in Josh Mark’s Head

Bryan Smith traces the rapid decline of Josh Marks, who committed suicide just 18 months after appearing as a finalist on the reality show MasterChef.

The Truth About Chicago’s Crime Rates

David Bernstein and Noah Isackson's investigation into the Chicago Police Department’s crime statistics show that recent drops in crime may not be as promising as the city has made them out to be. Make sure to also read part two of the special report. 

What Happened to Motorola?

Ted Fishman examines the rise and fall of the once-great telecom giant.

Will the Real Bruce Rauner Please Stand Up?

Carol Felsenthal takes a comprehensive look at the mystery man who in November would be elected governor of Illinois.

Chicagoans of the Year 2014: The Jackie Robinson West Baseball Team

These boys of summer captured a city’s hearts when they won the U.S. title in Little League World Series. Bryan Smith revisits the team’s improbable run to success and the character its players showed along the way.

Jahlil Okafor Is On His Way Up

Terrance Noland introduces us a young basketball player on the brink of stardom. (Since this story was published, Okafor has lived up to his promise at Duke University, averaging more than 17 points a game, and continues to appear bound for the NBA.)

Jose Lopez’s Last Stand

The Puerto Rican stronghold of Humboldt Park is fast becoming one of the city’s hottest neighborhoods. Meet the man who wants to stop that.

J.B. Pritzker: The Other Mayor of Chicago

As part of this year's Power 100 package, Bryan Smith tells the story of No. 3 on the list and explores his ambitions to make Chicago a leader in tech entrepreneurship.

Behind the Beanie Babies: The Secret Life of Ty Warner

Warner made billions marketing stuffed toys but narrowly escaped prison after pleading guilty to tax evasion.

Is Hannibal Buress the Funniest Man Alive?

The comedian would later make headlines with his commentary on the Bill Cosby rape allegations.