From dystopian futures to record-breaking boat trips, this list of summer reads will give any reader a master class in Western water brought to you by over 20 of Colorado’s top water leaders. Once the word was out that The Colorado Sun was looking for water book recommendations, water officials and experts leaped at the chance to share their favorites. (Normally, when this reporter introduces herself as a journalist, people back away slowly. So this was a refreshing change.) They disclosed what books were on their bedside tables and rattled off the classics, the books that anyone anywhere who is interested in Western water needs to read. Some shared epicly dry suggestions — i.e., dissertations or white papers, recommended for the true water wonks — while others offered children’s books and science fiction that blend entertainment and real water issues. There are always more books to read, but this list offers a starter guide for anyone interested in Western water.

Other water media news:

• Las Vegas Review-Journal: 112 miles, 7 days, no free water: Film spotlights drought in Southern Nevada