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“The magical pen serves as a unique symbol for the growing pressures associated with AI as well as addictive tendencies of technology. Vietnamese culture is highlighted through Vinh’s culinary interests and relationship with his grandmother. Real-world themes come together in a high-interest yet broadly accessible read that will especially appeal to future chefs.”

—School Library Journal

Vinh Tran Is Cursed

Written by Hai G.M. Doan
Published by Orca Book Publishers

Middle school is harder than twelve-year-old Vinh thought.

His grades are slipping, and if he hopes to compete in his school’s cooking competition, he needs to improve his marks. When Vinh’s grandmother gifts him a magical family heirloom, a jade pen that turns thoughts into proper sentences, she warns him that overuse will activate a curse. Though Vinh promises to be careful, he can’t resist using the pen to help him write essays and reports. His assignments are so good, he’s even getting extra attention from his teachers. Soon Vinh finds himself obsessing over the pen, neglecting his friends and acting moody at home. Can he break the curse before it costs him his chances in the cooking competition?

This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for middle-grade readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read! The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.

Primary ISBN:
Publication Date: August 2026
Available As: Paperback, eBook
Middle Grade, Age 09 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: Canada (Calgary AB)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 2nd Generation

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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