Under the pen name of Milico Mathers, Nancy E. Head, of Altoona, has released her second middle-grade historical novel.

Set in Ireland during World War II, 12-year-old Brian McGrath and his older brother Patrick are celebrating with their family, despite wartime shortages, when Irish police suddenly burst into their home.

Their father is arrested and jailed, accused of being part of the Irish Republican Army. With their father gone, the boys are forced to grow up fast and face choices they never imagined.

When Brian and Patrick discover a badly wounded pilot, they are shocked to learn he is an American who secretly left home to join the Royal Air Force in the fight against Nazi Germany. Helping him could put the boys and their family in danger, but leaving him behind feels impossible.

Desperate for help, the brothers turn to Mary, a quiet, mysterious weaver who lives on the edge of town. Mary is already risking everything by hiding two Jewish children from the Nazis. Together, the unlikely group must work in secret, relying on courage, trust, and compassion as they attempt to return the pilot to safety.

Set against the tensions of wartime Ireland, this gripping middle-grade novel explores loyalty, bravery, and the power of ordinary people to do what is right, even when the cost is high.

Lily Hildebrand, the author\’s granddaughter has illustrated both novels. She is a college student studying physical therapy.

Head is retired from Penn State Altoona and teaches middle school and high school English at Great Commission Schools in Altoona.

The book is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and other bookselling websites.