‘The Wager’ recounts the doomed 1741 British naval expedition, from Trevor Forbes’s perspective, spotlighting its leadership failures and lessons. Forbes observes how Captain David Cheap’s reliance on authority, versus John Bulkeley’s influence-driven approach, shaped the crew’s survival after a disastrous shipwreck. Grann vividly portrays the harsh conditions on Wager Island, emphasizing how character, competence, and resilience determine leadership success.
Forbes highlights how the story remains relevant for today’s leaders in terms of adaptability, mentorship, and moral clarity under pressure. For Forbes, The Wager is a profound study of leadership dynamics during extreme adversity and offers timeless insights into courage and human endurance.