the Crew
This main character is known for her protective instincts over her younger brother, Garrett.
Alyssa
This is the common term used in the book for the sudden and catastrophic cessation of water flow.
What is the Tap-Out?
To get initial water, Alyssa and Garrett try to collect condensation from this common household appliance.
a refrigerator
The book primarily takes place in this US state, heavily impacted by the water crisis.
California
"For example, winning the affection of a girl is a lot like shooting a deer."
Kelton
This character's family is a group of "preppers" with an extensively reinforced house and supplies.
Kelton
The novel introduces the concept of people who are severely dehydrated and act erratically, often called this.
Water-Zombies
Kelton's family believes there are three types of people in a crisis: Sheep, Wolves, and these.
Herders
Alyssa's parents initially leave to go to this California location in search of water.
the beach
"Everyone's going to remember where they were when the taps went dry. Like when a president is assassinated."
Alyssa
This street-smart character, initially encountered near a violent scene, joins the group and is known for her skepticism and tough exterior.
Jacqui
The unexpected appearance of this animal pack in Alyssa's house forces her and Garrett to leave.
Wild Dogs
After the initial water contamination, Garrett accidentally drops a can of this household cleaning product into the bathtub.
bleach (or Comet)
The name given to Kelton's family's remote, fortified hideout, which the group hopes to reach for safety and supplies.
the "bug-out"
"If I've learned anything in my studies, it's that the greatest investors capitalize in times of crisis."
Henry
This character first appears to have an abundance of a valuable resource, but his true intentions are later revealed to be less than altruistic.
Henry
The book describes the agricultural crisis of the drying up of Central Valley as the new this, referencing this historical event.
the Dust Bowl
Uncle Basil reveals he traded his truck for cases of this luxury water product.
AquaViva
When the taps run dry, Alyssa first goes to this large warehouse store to get water, but finds a fight instead.
Costco
"the Call of the Void ... I know that feeling intimately. It's where I live. I eat, sleep, and dream of the void, and whenever it calls my name, I'm there in the front row ready to answer."
Jacqui
This character is accidentally shot by his own father during a desperate struggle for resources.
Brady McCracken
At the beginning of the book, many national news outlets were still focused on this major weather event instead of the water crisis.
Hurricane Noah
Near the end of their journey, the group hopes to reach this natural body of water for a chance at survival.
a reservoir (specifically, Lake Arrowhead)
The water tank used by the residents of this location was actually contaminated.
Dove Canyon
"'No! We can't just leave him! We can't just leave Kingston!'"
Garrett