Last year, when a friend of the site casually mentioned they were surprised we didn’t do anything more celebratory to commemorate our memoir prizes — which, let’s face it, are a big deal! — we got the message loud and clear. So, we decided to host a party the Narratively way: with an author reading, a Q&A and a surprise flash essay contest at the end, of course. And what a success! Thank you to everyone who came out to party with us, especially banchiwosen woldeyesus, one of our star readers, for sharing what you loved about Andrew’s piece from the very beginning — and of course, Andrew, for reading an excerpt from your essay and being so candid in sharing about your process. (And to check out the winning essay from the limited-edition flash contest mentioned above, head here on our sister site, Narratively.) ICYMI, paid subscribers can check out the whole thing by clicking above. (And just a reminder that all of our live videos are free, and the recorded versions of them are available to all paying members. Learn how to become one below.)And if you haven’t yet read Andrew’s story, clear your afternoon and check his story our over some takeout souvlaki and a dark ‘n’ stormy. Enjoy!