Sunrise, by Mike Mullin

 Sunrise, by Mike Mullin, 466 pages

This is the third in the Ashfall trilogy- where a supervolcano turned the Midwest into a wasteland of ash and freezing cold.  Alex is growing up- he's taking control, starting a community, and trying to make some sense out of the madness.  Spoiler: I found this to be a really satisfying conclusion to the trilogy- there's no deus ex machina that saves everyone- they save themselves, and that's what I liked.

Ashen Winter, by Mike Mullin

Ashen Winter, by Mike Mullin, 576 pages

This is the sequel to Ashfall, and the second book in what should be a trilogy.  After a super-volcano in Yellowstone exploded and sent the world (but especially the Midwest) into an ash-covered nightmare, Alex survived and found his way to an uncle's farm in Illinois with the help of Darla, his more-than-a-girlfriend.  Now Alex decides it is time to find his mom and dad, who ventured back into the now-treacherous country of Iowa to find him.  Alex might find his parents, but it might be at the expense of the love of his life.

This is a thrilling read- every chapter end compels you to read "just the next chapter."  This volume is even a little scary, with a touch of McCarthy's The Road as an influence.  I would recommend for both young adults and adults.