While this newsletter is focused on the most-read stories each week, sometimes it’s worth calling out one that was not only widely read, but that readers also devoted a large amount of time to reading. This week it was the truly captivating From the Vault feature on a road trip crossing the Sahara desert. Also popular this week? An examination of the leading contenders for the Tower of Babel, how exercise helps fight cancer, and top sleep tips from a sleep expert. Before I sign off, I just wanted to also note that prominent BASE jumper and slackliner Andy Lewis died this week in an accident in Moab. We've written about Lewis multiple times, including a profile when he planned to jump from the Kuala Lumpur Tower and as the subject of an unforgettable photograph of him walking a slackline in front of the moon. 

—William O’Connor, Newsletter Editor 

COLLECTION MUSEUM BOIJMANS VAN BEUNINGEN, ROTTERDAM. ACQUIRED WITH THE COLLECTION OF D.G. VAN BEUNINGEN / PHOTOGRAPHY: STUDIO TROMP

PHOTOGRAPH BY MANUEL NARANJO MARTELL

Every year, Andalusia's yegüerizos corral a rare breed of horses in a sacred event that blends centuries-old tradition with modern conservation.

Today’s newsletter was edited and curated by William O'Connor and produced by Amanda Williams-Bryant. Let us know if you have suggestions and sign up here to get the Photo of the Week on Sundays. 

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