44 pages • 1 hour read
Augusten BurroughsDry
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2003A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Dry by Augusten Burroughs is a darkly humorous memoir detailing his journey from addiction to sobriety, starting with his life as a successful but heavily drinking advertising copywriter, leading to a rehabilitation stint at the Proud Institute, and following his struggles and progress post-rehab, including relapse, recovery, and grappling with personal loss and relationships. The memoir addresses the author's experiences of childhood sexual abuse.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Reviews for Dry by Augusten Burroughs highlight its raw and candid portrayal of addiction recovery, praised for humor and emotional depth. Readers appreciate Burroughs' authentic voice and narrative engagement. Some critics, however, find the tone inconsistent and the subject matter heavy. Overall, it's an impactful memoir balancing dark themes with wit.
Who Should Read Dry?
Fans of candid memoirs with dark humor will appreciate Dry by Augusten Burroughs. Readers who enjoyed the raw, confessional styles in A Million Little Pieces by James Frey and Running with Scissors by Burroughs himself will be captivated by this exploration of addiction and recovery. This book is ideal for those who enjoy gritty, introspective narratives.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsBook Details
Humor
Psychology
Biography
LGBTQ
Psychology
Addiction / Substance Abuse
Society: Community
Emotions/Behavior: Grief
Emotions/Behavior: Apathy