Megan Birk

About the Author

Megan Birk is a historian and author specializing in the social history of child welfare in America, with a particular focus on rural communities and family dynamics in the Midwest. Drawing from extensive archival research and personal narratives, she illuminates the often-overlooked stories of foster care systems and their impact on vulnerable children and families. Birk's work bridges academic rigor with accessible storytelling, offering insights into how historical practices of child placement continue to shape contemporary social policies. A dedicated educator and advocate, she teaches history at a Midwestern university and contributes to public discussions on child protection and rural life. Her debut book, Fostering on the Farm: Child Placement in the Rural Midwest, has been praised for its empathetic and detailed exploration of this vital topic.