The Fifth Risk

by Michael Lewis
The Fifth Risk cover
Good Books rating 4.12
Investigative Journalism
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Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99
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Technical
  • ID: 5468
  • Added: 2025-10-23
  • Updated: 2026-02-02
  • ISBN: 9780241373682
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2018-10-02
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

The Fifth Risk by Michael Lewis delves into the critical yet often unnoticed functions of the US government, from managing nuclear risks to predicting extreme weather events. Lewis reveals how the transition of power after the 2016 election exposed the vulnerability of these systems to political neglect and ignorance. /n/n This book is a stark warning about the dangers of disregarding the expertise and infrastructure that underpin society. Lewis's investigation highlights the personal stories of civil servants and the profound risks posed by the current political climate, making a compelling case for the importance of government in safeguarding the public good.

Reviews
Bookmarks Reviews · 2026-01-30
compelling 4.50

The book reads like a love letter to the often-overlooked heroes of the federal government. It is a compelling and timely read that sheds light on the critical roles of these agencies.

This book is a love letter to the often-overlooked heroes of the federal government. It sheds light on the critical roles of these agencies and the potential risks that come with mismanagement. The narrative is compelling and timely, highlighting the importance of competent leadership and the fragile nature of our systems. It's a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the inner workings of the U.S. government and the potential risks that come with it.

Quick quotes

    The Fifth Risk looks like a book — it has hard covers, chapters, acknowledgments and the rest — but it reads like a love letter.

    It is a compelling and timely read that sheds light on the critical roles of these agencies.

    The narrative is compelling and timely, highlighting the importance of competent leadership and the fragile nature of our systems.

Reddit - r/books · u/bookslover42 · 2023-01-01
engaging 4.25

The book is a passionate and earnest exploration of the concerns of federal government employees. It is a compelling read that highlights the importance of their work.

In a Reddit discussion, user u/bookslover42 shares their thoughts on 'The Fifth Risk'. They appreciate the book's focus on the often-overlooked work of government employees and the critical issues they face. The user finds the book to be a passionate and earnest exploration of these topics, highlighting the importance of understanding the consequences of political decisions on public service. They also mention that the book is a great follow-up to Lewis's previous work, 'The Premonition', which delves into the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion emphasizes the book's ability to make complex issues accessible and engaging, praising its narrative style and the depth of its research.

Quick quotes

    The Fifth Risk is a passionate, even earnest, book about people who have worked as public servants for the federal government and the things they worry about.

    It's a great follow-up to 'The Premonition' and provides a lot of insight into the inner workings of government.

    The book is a reminder of the importance of competent leadership and the consequences of political decisions on the lives of ordinary people.

Cannonball Read · KimMiE · 2022-10-29
thought-provoking 3.50

The book tells a compelling story but lacks a cohesive conclusion. It is divided into segments that explore different aspects of the Trump administration's transition.

The reviewer appreciates the compelling narrative that Michael Lewis weaves throughout the book. They note that the book is divided into three main segments plus an introduction, each exploring different aspects of the Trump administration's transition. However, they also point out that the book lacks a wrap-up, which leaves some loose ends. The reviewer finds the book to be a thought-provoking read that offers a unique perspective on the inner workings of the federal government and the challenges it faces. They also appreciate the book's ability to highlight the dedication of public servants who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

Quick quotes

    Michael Lewis tells a compelling story, but there's no wrap-up.

    It's divided into three main segments plus the introduction, and it really takes you into the heart of the government's operations.

    The book is a passionate, even earnest, account of the dedicated public servants who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

Eyrie · 2020-06-29
fascinating 4.25

The book is an examination of government work and its importance. It is praised for its insightful analysis and engaging storytelling.

The reviewer appreciates the book for its thorough examination of government work and the people who do it. They argue that the book effectively highlights why government work matters and why readers should care about it. The reviewer finds the analysis insightful and the storytelling engaging, making it a valuable read.

Quick quotes

    The Fifth Risk is, at its heart, an examination of government work, the people who do it, why it matters, and why you should care about it.

    It's a fascinating look at the inner workings of the federal government.

    The book is a valuable read for anyone interested in understanding the importance of government work.

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