Healing After War: KG Mach on Present, Still Missing | Middle Grade Historical Fiction

From Reading in The Middle by Annisha Jeffries

March 22, 2026 · 47 min · Season 3 · Episode 12

About this episode

Annisha Jeffries interviews KG Mach about her historical novel 'Present, Still Missing' and its themes of family and healing after war.

In this engaging episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries speaks with middle-grade author KG Mach about her heartfelt historical novel, Present, Still Missing. Set just after World War II, the story follows twelve-year-old Irene Bracken as she waits for her father to return from war. Upon his return, she finds that he has changed in ways she didn't expect. Through Irene’s perspective, listeners explore the complex emotions of family, the unseen scars of war, and the strength required to love and heal. During the discussion, KG Mach discusses: - The inspiration behind Present, Still Missing - How she wrote about PTSD and trauma for middle-grade audiences - Her research on the post-World War II era - Her path to publication and recognition - Why stories like Irene’s are important for young readers today This episode is ideal for teachers, librarians, parents, and middle-grade readers looking for meaningful books that address history, empathy, and mental health. Whether you're expanding your classroom library, organizing a book club, or seeking impactful historical fiction for middle graders, you won’t want to miss this episode. KG Mach's Website…

People in this episode

Host: Annisha Jeffries

Guest: KG Mach

Topics covered

historical fiction
PTSD
family dynamics
middle-grade literature
empathy
mental health

Keywords

middle-grade books
historical fiction for kids
WWII books for children
books about PTSD
family stories
literacy podcast

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Present, Still Missing