The Lottery Winner

Vu Trong Phung is considered one of the most influential figures of 20th century Vietnamese literature, with several of his works taught in Vietnamese schools. Often compared to Balzac, his works were banned in Northern Vietnam until the 1980s, as they were deemed "obscene".

The Lottery Winner narrates the story of Phuc who unexpectedly wins the lottery, and his life—and the lives of those around him—takes a dramatic and often hilarious turn. This sharp, satirical novel delves into the profound effects of sudden wealth, exposing the complexities of human nature and societal norms. As Phuc navigates his new status, his interactions with family, friends, and acquaintances reveal greed, vanity, and the superficiality of social status. With biting wit and keen observation, The Lottery Winner offers a compelling critique of hypocrisy and moral decay, using Phuc’s fortune as a lens to explore the deeper flaws of society.