If you loved
The Amateur
Edward Klein · Book · 2012
If The Amateur captivated you, you will appreciate these stories that peel back the curtain on the fragility and corruption inherent in power.
Films on the same thread
American Fiction
Cord Jefferson · Film · 2023
Like the critical dissection of leadership found in The Amateur, this film exposes the hypocrisy and performative nature of the establishment through a sharp, satirical lens on institutional power.
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
Frank Capra · Film · 1939
Where The Amateur explores the perceived incompetence of Washington, this classic film contrasts that cynicism with the struggle of an idealistic outsider trying to navigate a corrupt political system.
Fail Safe
Sidney Lumet · Film · 1964
The Amateur examines the consequences of poor leadership, a theme mirrored in this high-stakes thriller where a minor technical error leads to a catastrophic failure of the American presidency.
The Ides of March
George Clooney · Film · 2011
This film digs into the moral compromises of the campaign trail, echoing the harsh critique of political ambition and character flaws that defined the central thesis of The Amateur.
Series on the same thread
Veep
Armando Iannucci · Series · 2012
If you enjoyed the portrayal of administrative ineptitude in The Amateur, this comedy offers a biting, satirical look at the chaotic and dysfunctional reality behind the closed doors of power.
House of Cards
Beau Willimon · Series · 2013
The Amateur argues that political maneuvers are often driven by ego, a sentiment reflected in this drama as it depicts the ruthless, calculating climb to the top of Washington.
Tokyo Vice
J.T. Rogers · Series · 2022
Much like the investigative spirit of The Amateur, this series follows an outsider embedding themselves within a complex system to uncover the rot and corruption hidden from the public.
Designated Survivor
David Guggenheim · Series · 2016
This thriller builds on the questions of presidential readiness raised in The Amateur by forcing a sudden, unprepared leader to manage a national crisis within a web of conspiracy.
Podcasts on the same thread
Bag Man
Rachel Maddow, MS NOW · Podcast · 2023
This investigation into historical misconduct shares the same focus on political accountability found in The Amateur, documenting how power is often abused inside the walls of the White House.
American Scandal
Audible · Podcast · 2026
This series explores the fallout of institutional dishonesty, providing the same deep dive into the darker side of American political history that readers of The Amateur will appreciate.
Keep exploring
Common questions
Is The Amateur written by a New York Times bestselling author?
Yes, The Amateur is written by Edward Klein, who is a New York Times bestselling author. The book serves as a political exposé that examines his perspective on the presidency of Barack Obama during his time in office.
What is the central argument presented in The Amateur?
The Amateur argues that President Obama possessed a combination of incompetence and arrogance that negatively impacted the nation and his presidency. The author claims that the public sentiment at the time reflected a belief that the administration was effectively in over its head.
When was The Amateur published?
The Amateur was published in 2012. It was written by Edward Klein to provide a critical look at the political climate and the leadership style of the Obama administration during that specific period of American history.
Does The Amateur focus on the professional experience of President Obama?
Yes, The Amateur focuses on the professional experience of the president. The book contends that Obama was completely inexperienced for the role, characterizing the administration as an amateur hour at the White House throughout his tenure in office.