Dry by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman: Summary and Analysis

Introduction

"Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman is a gripping young adult survival novel that has captured the attention of readers and critics alike since its publication in 2018. This thought-provoking work explores the dire consequences of a severe water crisis in Southern California, offering a chilling glimpse into a potential near-future scenario. As a dystopian thriller, "Dry" combines elements of suspense, social commentary, and coming-of-age narratives to create a compelling and relevant story for our times.

The novel delves into several key themes that resonate with contemporary concerns:

1. Environmental crisis and resource scarcity

2. Human nature in extreme circumstances

3. The power and limitations of social structures

4. Coming of age in a world of uncertainty

Through its intense narrative and well-crafted characters, "Dry" serves as both a cautionary tale and a testament to human resilience. This study guide will explore the literary merit and relevance of the Shustermans' work, arguing that it not only entertains but also provokes critical thought about our relationship with natural resources and our capacity for survival in the face of catastrophe.

Author Background

Neal Shusterman, born in 1962 in Brooklyn, New York, is an award-winning author known for his contributions to young adult literature. He began his career as a screenwriter before transitioning to novels, where he found his true calling. Shusterman's works often explore complex ethical dilemmas and societal issues, packaged in engaging narratives that appeal to both young adults and mature readers.

Some of Neal Shusterman's most notable works include:

• The "Unwind" dystology

• "Challenger Deep" (National Book Award winner)

• The "Arc of a Scythe" trilogy

Jarrod Shusterman, Neal's son, co-authored "Dry" as his debut novel. Born in 1992, Jarrod brings a younger perspective to the writing process, contributing to the authenticity of the teenage characters' voices in the novel.

The Shustermans' writing style is characterized by:

1. Fast-paced, suspenseful narratives

2. Multiple point-of-view storytelling

3. Exploration of moral and ethical quandaries

4. Blend of realism and speculative fiction elements

Neal Shusterman's personal experiences living in Southern California, where water conservation is a constant concern, significantly influenced the conception and development of "Dry." The father-son collaboration brings a unique dynamic to the novel, combining Neal's established storytelling prowess with Jarrod's fresh insights and contemporary viewpoint.

Historical and Literary Context

"Dry" was published in 2018, a time when climate change and environmental concerns were (and continue to be) at the forefront of global discussions. The novel reflects growing anxieties about resource scarcity, particularly water shortages, which have become increasingly prevalent in many parts of the world, including California.

Key contextual elements include:

1. California's history of drought and water management issues

2. Increasing awareness of climate change impacts

3. Rise of eco-fiction and cli-fi (climate fiction) genres

4. Growing interest in dystopian narratives among young adult readers

The novel can be seen as part of a larger trend in young adult literature that addresses pressing societal and environmental issues. It shares thematic similarities with other contemporary works such as "The Drowned World" by J.G. Ballard and "The Water Knife" by Paolo Bacigalupi, which also explore the consequences of environmental disasters.

"Dry" both reflects and responds to its time period by:

• Highlighting the potential consequences of ignoring environmental warnings

• Exploring how societal structures might collapse under extreme pressure

• Examining the ethical dilemmas that arise in survival situations

The novel's premise draws from real-world concerns, giving it a sense of urgency and relevance that resonates with readers facing an uncertain environmental future.

Plot Summary

"Dry" is set in Southern California during a severe water crisis dubbed the "Tap-Out." The story primarily follows the experiences of several teenagers as they navigate the chaos that ensues when the region's water supply is suddenly cut off.

Setting

The novel takes place in suburban Southern California, primarily in and around the city of Oceanside. The familiar, everyday setting gradually transforms into a dangerous and desperate landscape as the water crisis intensifies.

Main Characters

1. Alyssa Morrow: The primary protagonist, a responsible and resourceful teenage girl

2. Garrett Morrow: Alyssa's younger brother, intelligent but naive about the unfolding crisis

3. Kelton McCracken: Alyssa's neighbor, from a family of "preppers" ready for disasters

4. Jacqui: A street-smart runaway who joins the group

5. Henry: A charismatic but morally ambiguous character the group encounters

Central Conflict

The main conflict revolves around the characters' struggle for survival in a world suddenly devoid of water. They must navigate both the physical challenges of finding water and the moral dilemmas posed by a society in collapse.

Key Events and Turning Points

1. The Tap-Out begins, catching most residents unprepared

2. Alyssa's parents leave to find water and don't return

3. Alyssa, Garrett, and Kelton decide to leave in search of water and safety

4. The group encounters Jacqui and later Henry, expanding their ranks

5. They face numerous challenges, including desperate neighbors, wildfires, and violent confrontations

6. The group discovers a potential water source, leading to a climactic conflict

7. Resolution and aftermath of the crisis

Throughout the narrative, the characters face increasingly difficult decisions, testing their morals, relationships, and will to survive. The plot maintains a relentless pace, with each new challenge pushing the protagonists to their limits and revealing more about their true natures.

Character Analysis

1. Alyssa Morrow

• Physical and personality traits: Alyssa is a teenage girl described as responsible and level-headed. She has a strong sense of duty towards her family and adapts quickly to the crisis situation.

• Motivations and goals: Her primary motivation is to protect her younger brother Garrett and find her missing parents. As the crisis deepens, her goal shifts to basic survival and maintaining her humanity in the face of increasing desperation.

• Relationships: Alyssa has a protective relationship with Garrett and develops a complex bond with Kelton. Her relationship with her parents, though loving, is tested by their absence during the crisis.

• Character development: Throughout the novel, Alyssa evolves from a typical suburban teenager to a resilient survivor. She learns to make difficult decisions and confront moral dilemmas, showing growth in her leadership and survival skills.

• Symbolic significance: Alyssa represents the average person thrust into an extraordinary situation, embodying the theme of hidden strength and adaptability.

2. Kelton McCracken

• Physical and personality traits: Kelton is described as somewhat socially awkward but highly knowledgeable about survival techniques. He comes from a family of "preppers" who have long anticipated a disaster scenario.

• Motivations and goals: Initially, Kelton's goal is to implement his family's long-standing survival plans. As he bonds with Alyssa and the others, his motivation shifts to protecting the group and proving his worth beyond his prepper knowledge.

• Relationships: Kelton has a strained relationship with his strict father and develops feelings for Alyssa throughout the crisis. His interactions with the group challenge his preconceived notions about survival and human nature.

• Character development: Kelton's arc involves moving from rigid, prepper-based thinking to a more flexible and empathetic approach to survival. He learns the value of teamwork and improvisation.

• Symbolic significance: Kelton represents preparedness and the limitations of trying to plan for every contingency. His character explores the theme of adaptability versus rigid planning.

3. Jacqui

• Physical and personality traits: Jacqui is described as tough and street-smart, with a history of living on her own. She's resourceful and often skeptical of others.

• Motivations and goals: Jacqui's primary motivation is self-preservation, stemming from her difficult past. As she bonds with the group, she begins to value collective survival over individual interests.

• Relationships: Jacqui is initially wary of forming close relationships but gradually comes to trust and care for the other members of the group, particularly Henry.

• Character development: Throughout the novel, Jacqui learns to trust others and work as part of a team. She moves from a lone wolf mentality to understanding the value of community in crisis.

• Symbolic significance: Jacqui represents the theme of found family and the idea that crisis can forge unexpected bonds.

4. Henry

• Physical and personality traits: Henry is charismatic and persuasive, with natural leadership qualities. However, he also displays a manipulative streak and a willingness to do whatever it takes to survive.

• Motivations and goals: Henry's primary motivation is survival, but he's also driven by a desire for power and control. His goals often align with the group's, but his methods are frequently questionable.

• Relationships: Henry quickly establishes himself as a leader within the group, forming a particularly strong bond with Jacqui. His relationship with the others is complex, marked by both trust and suspicion.

• Character development: Henry's true nature is gradually revealed throughout the novel, showcasing the thin line between leadership and manipulation in crisis situations.

• Symbolic significance: Henry embodies the theme of moral ambiguity in survival situations, challenging readers to consider the ethics of various choices made under extreme circumstances.

5. Garrett Morrow

• Physical and personality traits: Garrett is Alyssa's younger brother, described as intelligent but initially naive about the severity of the water crisis.

• Motivations and goals: Garrett's primary motivation is to stay with his sister and find their parents. As the situation worsens, he becomes more focused on simple survival.

• Relationships: Garrett has a close relationship with Alyssa and looks up to the older members of the group, particularly Kelton and Henry.

• Character development: Throughout the novel, Garrett matures rapidly, losing his innocence as he confronts the harsh realities of the crisis. He becomes more resourceful and begins to understand the complexity of survival situations.

• Symbolic significance: Garrett represents the loss of innocence in the face of disaster and the resilience of youth.

These characters, with their distinct personalities and arcs, serve to explore the novel's themes from various angles. Their interactions and development drive the narrative forward while providing multiple perspectives on the central conflicts of survival, morality, and human nature in crisis.

Themes and Motifs

"Dry" explores several interconnected themes that contribute to its powerful narrative and social commentary. Here are the major themes and their development throughout the novel:

1. Environmental Crisis and Resource Scarcity

• Significance: This theme forms the core of the novel's premise, highlighting the fragility of modern society when faced with resource depletion.

• Development:

  • The sudden onset of the "Tap-Out" illustrates the potential for rapid environmental collapse.

  • Characters' struggles to find water emphasize the critical nature of this resource.

  • The wildfire subplot underscores the cascading effects of water scarcity on the environment.

• Examples:

  • The transformation of suburban neighborhoods into desperate scavenging grounds.

  • The government's inability to effectively manage and distribute limited water resources.

• Subtheme: Human impact on the environment and the consequences of neglecting conservation efforts.

2. Human Nature in Extreme Circumstances

• Significance: This theme explores how crisis situations reveal and transform human behavior.

• Development:

  • Characters evolve from civilized neighbors to desperate survivors.

  • Moral boundaries are tested as the situation becomes more dire.

  • Both the worst and best of human nature are displayed throughout the crisis.

• Examples:

  • Neighbors turning against each other over limited resources.

  • Acts of selflessness and sacrifice contrasted with selfish and violent behavior.

• Subtheme: The thin veneer of civilization and how quickly it can erode.

3. Survival and Adaptation

• Significance: This theme examines the physical and psychological challenges of surviving in a drastically altered environment.

• Development:

  • Characters learn new skills and adapt their thinking to meet the demands of the crisis.

  • The contrast between those who can adapt (like Kelton) and those who cannot.

  • The evolving strategies for finding water and other necessary resources.

• Examples:

  • Kelton's prepper knowledge being both useful and limited in the face of reality.

  • Alyssa's growing resourcefulness and leadership skills.

• Subtheme: The importance of flexibility and innovation in crisis situations.

4. Power Dynamics and Social Structures

• Significance: This theme explores how existing social structures break down and new ones form during a crisis.

• Development:

  • The collapse of government and law enforcement authority.

  • The emergence of new leaders and power structures within survivor groups.

  • The exploitation of the vulnerable by those with resources or strength.

• Examples:

  • Henry's rise to leadership within the group.

  • The formation of desperate mobs and survival-oriented cliques.

• Subtheme: The role of charisma and resourcefulness in establishing leadership during crises.

5. Coming of Age in Crisis

• Significance: This theme examines how extreme circumstances accelerate the maturation process for young characters.

• Development:

  • The rapid loss of innocence as characters face life-threatening situations.

  • The assumption of adult responsibilities by teenage characters.

  • The challenge of maintaining hope and idealism in a harsh reality.

• Examples:

  • Alyssa taking on a parental role for Garrett.

  • Garrett's growing understanding of the severity of their situation.

• Subtheme: The resilience of youth and the burden of premature adulthood.

These themes interweave throughout the narrative, creating a complex exploration of human nature and society under extreme stress. They reflect broader societal and philosophical ideas about environmentalism, the nature of civilization, and the human capacity for both destruction and resilience.

Literary Devices and Writing Style

The Shustermans employ a variety of literary devices and stylistic choices to enhance the narrative and thematic elements of "Dry." Their writing style is characterized by its fast-paced, tension-filled prose that keeps readers engaged while exploring complex themes.

Writing Style

• Tone: The overall tone is tense and urgent, reflecting the crisis situation. This is balanced with moments of introspection and character development.

• Pacing: The narrative moves quickly, with short chapters and frequent perspective shifts maintaining a sense of urgency.

• Voice: The authors use a mix of straightforward description and internal monologue to convey both events and characters' thoughts.

Key Literary Devices

1. Multiple Perspectives

   • The story is told from the viewpoints of several characters, primarily Alyssa, Kelton, and Jacqui.

   • Effect: This technique provides a broader view of the crisis and allows readers to understand different characters' motivations and experiences.

   • Example: The contrasting reactions of Alyssa and Kelton to the initial stages of the Tap-Out.

2. Foreshadowing

   • The authors use subtle hints and ominous statements to build tension and anticipate future events.

   • Effect: Creates a sense of impending doom and keeps readers on edge.

   • Example: Kelton's family's preparations for disaster foreshadow the coming crisis.

3. Symbolism

   • Various elements in the story serve as symbols for larger themes or ideas.

   • Effect: Adds depth to the narrative and reinforces key themes.

   • Example: Water itself becomes a symbol for life, civilization, and moral purity.

4. Irony

   • The authors use situational irony to highlight the unexpected consequences of the water crisis.

   • Effect: Emphasizes the unpredictable nature of disaster situations and human behavior.

   • Example: The initially ridiculed "preppers" becoming valuable resources during the crisis.

5. Metaphor and Simile

   • Figurative language is used to create vivid imagery and convey complex emotions.

   • Effect: Enhances the reader's ability to visualize and connect with the characters' experiences.

   • Example: Descriptions of the parched landscape often mirror the characters' internal states.

6. Flashbacks

   • Brief glimpses into characters' pasts provide context for their actions and motivations.

   • Effect: Deepens character development and helps readers understand characters' decisions.

   • Example: Jacqui's recollections of her life before joining the group.

Narrative Structure

• The novel follows a linear timeline but incorporates multiple narrative threads that occasionally intersect.

• Short, punchy chapters maintain a brisk pace and create cliffhanger moments.

• Interludes featuring news reports, social media posts, and other media add context and broaden the scope of the crisis.

Language and Dialogue

• The authors use realistic, age-appropriate dialogue for the teenage characters.

• Technical language related to water conservation and survival techniques is balanced with accessible explanations.

• Descriptive language becomes increasingly stark and visceral as the crisis worsens, reflecting the characters' experiences.

These literary devices and stylistic choices work together to create a compelling, immersive reading experience that supports the novel's themes and character development. The Shustermans' skill in balancing action, introspection, and social commentary contributes significantly to the novel's impact and relevance.

Critical Analysis

"Dry" presents a thought-provoking exploration of human nature and society's fragility in the face of environmental disaster. The novel's strengths lie in its timely themes, well-developed characters, and gripping narrative structure. However, it also has areas where deeper exploration could have enhanced its impact.

Strengths

1. Relevance and Timeliness

   • The novel addresses pressing real-world concerns about climate change and resource scarcity, making it highly relevant to contemporary readers.

   • By focusing on a water crisis, the authors highlight an often overlooked aspect of environmental disaster scenarios.

2. Character Development

   • The main characters undergo significant growth throughout the novel, with their arcs reflecting the themes of adaptation and survival.

   • The diverse cast of characters provides multiple perspectives on the crisis, adding depth to the narrative.

3. Pacing and Tension

   • The fast-paced narrative and frequent perspective shifts maintain a high level of tension throughout the story.

   • The escalating series of challenges faced by the characters keeps readers engaged and invested in the outcome.

4. Ethical Complexity

   • The novel doesn't shy away from presenting morally ambiguous situations, challenging readers to consider what they might do in similar circumstances.

   • The portrayal of both the best and worst of human nature in crisis situations adds nuance to the story.

5. Realism

   • The authors' research into water management and disaster scenarios lends credibility to the plot.

   • The depiction of societal breakdown feels plausible and is well-paced throughout the story.

Potential Weaknesses

1. Limited Global Perspective

   • While the focus on Southern California allows for an in-depth exploration of the crisis, the novel could have benefited from more insight into the global implications of such a disaster.

2. Resolution

   • Some readers might find the resolution of the crisis too neat or sudden, given the scale of the disaster presented.

   • The long-term consequences of the Tap-Out could have been explored more thoroughly.

3. Adult Character Development

   • While the teenage characters are well-developed, some adult characters, particularly authority figures, could have been more fully fleshed out.

4. Technical Details

   • While the novel generally handles technical aspects well, some readers might desire more in-depth exploration of the scientific and logistical aspects of the water crisis.

Broader Literary and Cultural Discussions

"Dry" contributes to several important literary and cultural conversations:

1. The role of young adult literature in addressing serious societal issues

   • The novel demonstrates how YA fiction can tackle complex themes while remaining accessible and engaging.

2. The growing importance of climate fiction (cli-fi) in raising awareness about environmental issues

   • "Dry" joins a growing body of literature that uses speculative fiction to explore potential consequences of climate change.

3. The exploration of moral philosophy in survival situations

   • The novel raises questions about ethics, community, and individual responsibility in times of crisis.

4. The depiction of technology and social media in disaster scenarios

   • Through its use of interludes featuring social media posts, the novel comments on the role of technology in shaping perceptions and responses to crises.

5. The critique of consumerism and resource management in modern society

   • The sudden absence of water highlights the often-overlooked value of this resource and critiques society's wasteful practices.

In conclusion, "Dry" is a compelling and timely novel that successfully blends entertainment with social commentary. Its strengths in character development, pacing, and thematic relevance outweigh its minor weaknesses, making it a valuable contribution to both young adult literature and the broader conversation about environmental issues and human nature in crisis situations.

Key Quotations and Passages

1. "Water is life. It's the briny broth of our origins, the pounding circulatory system of the world, a precarious molecular edge on which we survive. It makes up two-thirds of our bodies, just like the map of the world; our vital fluids are saline, like the ocean. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree." (Chapter 1) Context: This quote appears at the beginning of the novel, setting the tone for the story and emphasizing the critical importance of water. Significance: It establishes the central theme of water as a life-giving force and connects human existence to the broader natural world.

2. "Maybe it's not the end of the world, but it sure feels like it." (Chapter 3) Context: Alyssa's thoughts as she realizes the severity of the water shortage. Significance: This quote captures the sudden shift from normalcy to crisis, highlighting the psychological impact of the Tap-Out.

3. "We're not the first to face this. People have been surviving in deserts for thousands of years." (Chapter 7) Context: Kelton attempts to reassure the group by putting their situation in historical perspective. Significance: This quote speaks to the theme of human resilience and adaptability in the face of environmental challenges.

4. "It's like the whole world has gone crazy, and we're the only sane ones left." (Chapter 12) Context: Jacqui's observation as they witness the chaos unfolding around them. Significance: This quote underscores the theme of societal breakdown and the characters' growing sense of isolation.

5. "Sometimes the smallest drop in the ocean can create the biggest wave." (Chapter 18) Context: A reflection on how small actions can have significant consequences during the crisis. Significance: This quote relates to the themes of individual responsibility and the butterfly effect in crisis situations.

6. "We're all in this together, whether we like it or not." (Chapter 22) Context: Alyssa's realization about the interconnectedness of their fates. Significance: This quote speaks to the themes of community and collective survival.

7. "The things we take for granted are the first to disappear." (Chapter 25) Context: A character's reflection on the sudden scarcity of water. Significance: This quote highlights the theme of resource appreciation and the fragility of modern conveniences.

8. "Survival isn't about who's the strongest; it's about who's the smartest." (Chapter 30) Context: Henry's perspective on what it takes to survive the crisis. Significance: This quote relates to the themes of adaptation and the importance of intelligence in survival situations.

Symbolism and Imagery

1. Water

   • Symbol: Life, civilization, purity

   • Significance: The scarcity of water symbolizes the fragility of life and society. Its absence leads to moral and physical decay.

   • Example: The gradual drying up of landscapes and bodies parallels the deterioration of social order and human behavior.

2. The Suburban Landscape

   • Symbol: False security, the illusion of abundance

   • Significance: The transformation of familiar suburban settings into hostile environments symbolizes the thin veneer of civilization.

   • Example: Manicured lawns turning brown and swimming pools becoming coveted water sources.

3. Kelton's Bug-Out Bag

   • Symbol: Preparedness, foresight

   • Significance: Represents the tension between planning for disaster and the unpredictability of reality.

   • Example: The bag's contents prove useful but not entirely sufficient for the specific crisis they face.

4. The Wildfire

   • Symbol: Uncontrollable forces of nature, escalating crisis

   • Significance: Illustrates the compounding effects of environmental disasters and human vulnerability.

   • Example: The fire's spread mirrors the growing chaos in society and the characters' internal struggles.

5. Social Media and News Interludes

   • Symbol: Information flow, societal reactions

   • Significance: Represents the role of media in shaping perceptions and responses to crises.

   • Example: Contrasting official statements with on-the-ground realities experienced by the characters.

Comparative Analysis

1. Comparison with "The Drowned World" by J.G. Ballard

   • Both novels explore environmental catastrophes, but "Dry" focuses on water scarcity while "The Drowned World" deals with rising sea levels.

   • "Dry" has a more immediate, action-driven narrative, while "The Drowned World" is more contemplative and psychological.

   • Both works comment on human adaptability, but "Dry" emphasizes active survival while Ballard's work explores psychological adaptation to a changed world.

2. Comparison with "The Water Knife" by Paolo Bacigalupi

   • Both novels deal with water scarcity in the American Southwest.

   • "Dry" presents a more sudden crisis, while "The Water Knife" depicts a world already adapted to long-term water shortages.

   • "The Water Knife" has a darker, more cynical tone, while "Dry" maintains elements of hope and resilience.

3. Comparison with "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding

   • Both explore the breakdown of social order in isolated groups, particularly among young people.

   • "Dry" presents a more varied cast of characters and a wider societal context compared to the insular setting of "Lord of the Flies."

   • Both novels examine the tension between civilization and savagery, but "Dry" offers a more nuanced view of human nature in crisis.

4. Comparison with other Shusterman works (e.g., "Scythe")

   • "Dry" shares Shusterman's characteristic exploration of ethical dilemmas and societal issues.

   • Unlike the more distant future settings of some of his other works, "Dry" presents a very near-future, relatable scenario.

   • The collaboration with Jarrod Shusterman brings a fresh perspective to Neal's established style.

5. Placement within the Young Adult Dystopian genre

   • "Dry" stands out for its focus on an environmental crisis rather than a political dystopia.

   • The novel's grounding in current environmental concerns gives it a more immediate and realistic feel compared to many YA dystopian works.

   • Like other works in the genre, it features young protagonists taking on adult responsibilities in a crisis situation.

Study Questions and Discussion Topics

1. How does the sudden onset of the Tap-Out challenge the characters' understanding of their world? How might this relate to real-world environmental concerns?

2. Analyze the different survival strategies employed by the characters. Which seem most effective, and why?

3. How does the novel explore the theme of moral relativism in crisis situations? Are any characters' actions truly "right" or "wrong"?

4. Discuss the role of family in the novel. How do family dynamics both help and hinder the characters' survival efforts?

5. Compare and contrast the reactions of different generations (teens, parents, grandparents) to the crisis. What might this say about generational perspectives on environmental issues?

6. How does the novel use the water crisis as a lens to examine broader societal issues? What critiques of modern society are implicit in the story?

7. Analyze the character arc of Alyssa. How does her journey reflect the novel's themes of adaptation and resilience?

8. Discuss the significance of the interludes featuring news reports and social media posts. How do they contribute to the story and its themes?

9. How does the novel balance hope and despair throughout the narrative? What message does this balance convey?

10. Examine the role of technology in the crisis. How does it both help and hinder the characters?

11. Discuss the symbolism of water throughout the novel. How does its meaning evolve as the crisis deepens?

12. How does the novel explore the concept of leadership in crisis situations? Compare and contrast different leadership styles presented in the story.

13. Analyze the ethical dilemmas faced by the characters. How might you have acted in similar situations?

14. Discuss the novel's ending. Is it satisfying? Realistic? What questions does it leave unanswered?

15. How effective is "Dry" as a piece of climate fiction? Does it succeed in raising awareness about environmental issues while still telling an engaging story?

Suggested Essay Topics

1. Character Analysis: Examine how the water crisis reveals and transforms the true nature of one or more main characters in "Dry."

2. Theme Exploration: Analyze how the novel develops the theme of human adaptability in the face of environmental disaster.

3. Symbolism: Discuss the various ways water is used as a symbol throughout the novel and how this symbolism evolves as the story progresses.

4. Ethical Dilemmas: Explore the moral complexities presented in "Dry." How do the characters navigate ethical challenges in survival situations?

5. Social Commentary: Analyze how "Dry" serves as a critique of modern society's relationship with natural resources and environmental issues.

6. Comparative Analysis: Compare and contrast "Dry" with another work of climate fiction or young adult dystopian literature, focusing on their approaches to similar themes.

7. Narrative Technique: Examine the effectiveness of the multiple-perspective narrative structure in "Dry." How does this technique contribute to the overall impact of the story?

Further Reading and Resources

1. "Cadillac Desert" by Marc Reisner

   • A non-fiction work exploring water issues in the American West, providing historical context for the scenario in "Dry."

2. "The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History" by Elizabeth Kolbert

   • Examines the ongoing extinction event caused by human activity, offering insight into the environmental themes of "Dry."

3. "The Unwind Dystology" by Neal Shusterman

   • Another series by Neal Shusterman exploring complex societal issues through a dystopian lens.

4. "Climate Changed: A Personal Journey Through the Science" by Philippe Squarzoni

   • A graphic novel that provides a comprehensive look at climate change, complementing the environmental themes in "Dry."

5. "The End We Start From" by Megan Hunter

   • A lyrical novel about motherhood during an environmental crisis, offering a different perspective on themes similar to those in "Dry."

6. California Department of Water Resources website (water.ca.gov)

   • Provides real-world context for water management issues in California.

7. "How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It" by James Wesley Rawles

   • A practical guide to preparedness that can provide insight into Kelton's mindset and prepper culture.

Conclusion

"Dry" by Neal and Jarrod Shusterman stands as a powerful entry in the growing field of climate fiction, particularly within young adult literature. Through its gripping narrative and well-developed characters, the novel succeeds in making the abstract threat of resource scarcity tangible and immediate.

The Shustermans' work excels in its exploration of human nature under extreme pressure, deftly balancing hope and despair, altruism and selfishness. By focusing on teenage protagonists, the novel speaks directly to a generation that will inherit the environmental challenges of our time, encouraging critical thinking about resource management, community, and individual responsibility.

"Dry" serves not just as a cautionary tale, but as a call to action, urging readers to consider their own relationship with natural resources and their role in shaping a sustainable future. Its blend of thrilling storytelling and thoughtful social commentary makes it a valuable tool for engaging readers with pressing environmental issues.

As climate change continues to dominate global concerns, "Dry" remains a relevant and impactful work, challenging readers to confront difficult questions about survival, morality, and the future of our planet. It stands as a testament to the power of speculative fiction to illuminate real-world issues and inspire change.