3-Day Novel Contest strikes again!

Each year, caffeine-addled and possibly delusional aspiring novelists strap themselves to their computer chairs and take on one of the world’s wildest literary rides. That’s right: the 3-Day Novel Contest is once more upon us, complete with frenzied typing, over-use of stimulants, and brief flashes of doubt and frustration interspersed with bouts of genius.

Taking place each Labor Day weekend since 1977, the contest this year runs from September 4 through 6, with the official deadline for entry due on September 3. For those that prefer to participate unofficially, no entry fee is required, though winners of the official contest stand to win a sweet book deal for their efforts, with second prize winners netting $500, while third prize still takes home $100.

I participated in the contest, unofficially, in 2009, and recorded my experience for posterity over at Fuel Your Writing. For more reading material to help you make up your mind on this wild ride, The Millions also has a recent piece on the trials and tribulations of a 3-Day Novelist, and Minister Faust’s Bro-Log‘s even got video of himself tormenting judging some of the brave novelists who participated in a live writing marathon out in Edmonton.

Whether you’re a first-time novelist, an old hand, or just a wild and crazy soul looking for a challenge, the 3-Day Novel Contest could be just the literary kick you need to finish your first manuscript and get it out into the marketplace.