What makes a terrific personal narrative?

• works as a "snapshot" of one interesting, critical experience or moment in time (meaning it is NOT a full length autobiography!)
• opens with a catchy hook so readers want to keep reading
• is told in 1st person
• uses sensory details and vivid descriptions so readers can "see" the setting, action, characters, etc.
• skillfully uses figurative language to enhance descriptions
• ends with a satisfying closing (often one that hints at what was learned from the experience)
• makes the audience think!
• deals with universal themes so readers can relate in some way