Andrea Hirata is an Indonesian author best known for his debut novel, "Laskar Pelangi" (The Rainbow Troops), published in 2005. The book tells the inspiring story of a group of children from a poor village in Belitung, Indonesia, who strive for education despite numerous challenges. It has gained immense popularity and has been translated into several languages. Hirata's writing often reflects his own experiences growing up in Belitung and highlights themes of hope, perseverance, and the importance of education. He has since published several other novels and has become a prominent figure in Indonesian literature, inspiring many readers both locally and internationally.