Dry is a book written by Neil and Jarrod Shusterman. It is a vividly realistic novel about the effects of a prolonged drought in California. The novel takes readers on a journey of events that do not seem very far-fetched, since California has been experiencing severe environmental problems in recent times in real life. In the story, one day, Alyssa (sixteen years old) and her brother Garrett (ten years old) leave their home to search for their parents, who have gone missing while hunting for bottled water. During their journey, they meet and befriend other teenagers to form a team in what becomes a fight for survival in a somewhat hostile environment. Along their journey, they meet Jacqui, Henry, and Kelton, whom they team up with to try to ensure safety and protection for themselves. Their common goal ultimately becomes to find the survival shelter that belongs to Kelton's family.

In the story, Henry is a deeply flawed character, but he is also helpful in some ways. He is a wealthy kid who wants to exploit the low water supply to profit. Additionally, he is manipulative and clever, and those character traits help the team in difficult situations. Each member of the group has strengths and weaknesses, but they all work together as best as they can to try to survive. If the children had never gone on a search to attempt to locate their parents after they went missing, then they probably would have never met Henry or any of the other friends along their journey. Throughout their struggles and triumphs, they see the best and worst of humanity. Some people are caring for others' well-being, and some people are ruthlessly looking out for their own survival. For the children, forming the team proves to be the best defense against the elements and the horrible people they encounter.