Who Is Government?

by Edited by Michael Lewis
Who Is Government? cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Anthologies (Multi-author)
Technical
  • ID: 2969
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781837310302
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2025-03-18
  • Reviews: 3

Who is Government? takes readers on a journey into the often-overlooked world of federal employees who make a significant impact on society. Through engaging essays, the book highlights the stories of individuals like a former coal miner dedicated to improving mine safety, an IRS agent with a thrilling backstory, and a manager who transformed the National Cemetery Administration into a model organization. These public servants, though reluctant to take credit, are crucial to the functioning of our society. The book not only showcases their essential work but also underscores the importance of government in addressing society's biggest challenges. /n/n Michael Lewis, known for his bestsellers like The Big Short and The Fifth Risk, brings together a team of talented writers to explore the hidden corners of government work. Each essay reveals the dedication and innovation of these public servants, from digitizing archives to discovering new planets. Who is Government? is a compelling read that sheds light on the often-unseen efforts that make our lives possible and emphasizes the vital role of government in our daily lives.

Reviews
Patricia Chadwick's Blog · Patricia Chadwick · 2025-05-02
enlightening 4.00

The book is described as a gem that provides a unique perspective on democratic government. It challenges conventional views and offers a deeper understanding of public service.

Patricia Chadwick highlights a particular paragraph that encapsulates the essence of the book, emphasizing its value in challenging conventional views of democratic government. She appreciates the book's ability to provide a deeper understanding of public service and the people behind it. Chadwick finds the book to be a gem, offering a unique and insightful perspective on a often misunderstood topic.

Quick quotes

    A paragraph by Michael Lewis sums up the reason WHO IS GOVERNMENT? is such a gem.

    Democratic government isn't really designed to highlight the...

    The book provides a unique perspective on democratic government.

The Washington Post · 2025-03-20
essential 4.50

The book is filled with examples of the federal government's vital role in American life. It portrays the government as a complex and essential system.

This review emphasizes the book's ability to illustrate the vital role of the federal government in American life. The reviewer appreciates the diverse examples and stories that highlight the complexity and importance of government functions. They find the book to be a compelling portrait of public service, offering a much-needed correction to common misconceptions.

Quick quotes

    Who Is Government? is filled with examples of what the federal government does and why it is vital to American life.

    The book portrays the government as a complex and essential system.

    It offers a compelling portrait of public service.

The Guardian · 2025-03-19
insightful 4.50

The book effectively highlights the limitations of free market solutions through gripping narratives. It offers a nuanced perspective on the role of government and public service.

This review praises the book for its compelling storytelling that illustrates the complexities and essential roles of government. The reviewer appreciates how the book challenges the notion of free market solutions and sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of public servants. They find the book both timely and thought-provoking, offering a fresh perspective on a critical aspect of society.

Quick quotes

    Lewis bookends Who Is Government? with two typically gripping stories that illustrate the limits of free market solutions.

    The book effectively highlights the limitations of free market solutions through gripping narratives.

    It offers a nuanced perspective on the role of government and public service.

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