This week, dozens of zoo animals ran free, a tattooed Barbie caused controversy, and a dictator met a violent end. These headlining stories reflect life’s various levels of chaos. Perhaps seeking order out of the extraordinary, Six-Word Memoirs offered distillations of local lives and global affairs in small, inspired bites. Below are the best memoirs of the week; click on each author’s name to read more of their stories.

Best Imagery: “Inherited Mom’s zest and Dad’s lemons.” –wayword_angel, championing the most favorites as well as Memoir of the Day earlier this week.
Toughest Narrative Arc: “Make-up on arms; something to hide.” –ElectricPirate (profile image above)
Best Imagery: “Multi-cracked heart in need of tourniquet.”-LucidDreamer
Headiest Journey: “Chosen for something. Not sure what….” – London Adam, from our newest section, Six Words on the Jewish Life.
Best Backstory: “Only artists under 30 need apply” – marymc
Most Self-Aware: “Must. Stop. Taking. My. Own. Picture.” –Ells from SMITHTeens.