Day Shift Werewolf by Jan Underwood; 3-Day Books, $11.95

Once a year, there is an international competition to write a novel in three days. It is headquartered in Toronto, but writers anywhere in the world may participate (www.3daynovel.com). Outlines may be prepared in advance, but the writing must be done during a specific 72-hour period. Last year's winner was Jan Underwood of Portland, Oregon, and the publication of her work, Day Shift Werewolf, is her reward. The pleasure of reading the work is ours.

Day Shift Werewolf is composed of eight short first-person essays penned primarily by various ghouls and goblins living in the fictional town of Stevens' Ferry. There is the zombie mother who obsesses over her son's refusal to hang with his tribe; the werewolf who isn't making his quota of dead humans and gets put on the day shift; and the Sasquatch parents who fret over their hairy, Big Foot daughter's desire to become a ballerina. Needless to say, each essay is rendered with tongue firmly implanted in cheek, and a wry, whimsical tone. Most characters rattle in their earthbound chains; but in the last essay, one lonely mummy has a poignant emotional catharsis, courtesy of a dog who frees him to take his rightful place in the afterlife.

The three-day novel contest is conducted on the honor system, and it is almost impossible to believe a work this rich could have been produced so quickly. Yet from the reader's perspective, it matters not. Day Shift Werewolf is a thorough delight that will make you laugh out loud. Jan Underwood puts to shame all those wannabe writers who have been laboring over The Great American Novel for years without results. Both adults and teenagers will find much to admire in this amazing work.