By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

In "Who Is Government? The Untold Story of Public Service," Michael Lewis, renowned for his incisive explorations of complex systems, assembles a cadre of esteemed writers to illuminate the often-overlooked individuals who constitute the backbone of the federal government. This anthology, an expansion of a series originally featured in The Washington Post, seeks to dismantle the pervasive stereotype of the apathetic bureaucrat by presenting vivid profiles of dedicated public servants whose work profoundly impacts American society.

The collection is a masterclass in narrative journalism, with each contributor bringing a unique lens to their subject. Casey Cep's portrayal of Ronald E. Waters, the unassuming yet highly effective leader of the National Cemetery Administration, is particularly striking. Waters' commitment to excellence has resulted in a customer satisfaction rating of 97, a testament to his unwavering dedication to honoring veterans with dignity. Cep's narrative captures the essence of a leader who eschews personal accolades, embodying the ethos of selfless service. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/books/2025/mar/19/who-is-government-by-michael-lewis-review-what-doge-is-trying-to-destroy?utm_source=openai))

Dave Eggers' exploration of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory offers a compelling glimpse into the collaborative spirit that drives scientific innovation. Eggers highlights the lab's culture of teamwork and humility, where individual achievements are subsumed by collective progress. This account not only demystifies the operations of a pivotal institution but also underscores the intrinsic motivation that propels these scientists and engineers. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/books/2025/mar/19/who-is-government-by-michael-lewis-review-what-doge-is-trying-to-destroy?utm_source=openai))

Christopher Mark's transformation from coal miner to a pivotal figure in mine safety at the Department of Labor is another standout narrative. His development of the "stability factor" protocol has been instrumental in preventing mine collapses, saving countless lives. This story serves as a poignant reminder of the critical role that regulation and oversight play in safeguarding workers, challenging the notion that such measures are mere bureaucratic red tape. ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/michael-lewis/who-is-government/?utm_source=openai))

The anthology also addresses the challenges faced by public servants in an era of political volatility. The introduction of "Doge," a thinly veiled reference to Elon Musk's controversial tenure at Twitter, serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of applying a "move fast and break things" mentality to institutions built on decades of expertise and stability. This narrative thread underscores the fragility of public institutions when subjected to uninformed disruption. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/books/2025/mar/19/who-is-government-by-michael-lewis-review-what-doge-is-trying-to-destroy?utm_source=openai))

However, the collection is not without its shortcomings. While the profiles are meticulously crafted, there is a noticeable absence of critical examination of systemic issues within the federal government. The anthology's laudatory tone, though inspiring, occasionally veers into hagiography, potentially glossing over areas in need of reform. A more balanced approach that acknowledges both the triumphs and tribulations of public service would have provided a more nuanced perspective.

In conclusion, "Who Is Government?" is a timely and compelling anthology that sheds light on the unsung heroes of the federal workforce. It serves as a potent antidote to the cynicism that often surrounds public service, reminding readers of the indispensable role these individuals play in the functioning of society. While it could benefit from a more critical lens, the collection's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

Recommendation: Highly recommended!

written on: 5/1/2025