Cecilia Manguerra Brainard is a Filipino-American author known for her contributions to literature that explore themes of identity, culture, and the Filipino experience. She has written several novels, short stories, and essays, often drawing from her own life and heritage. Her works include titles like When the Rainbow Goddess Wept and The Newspaper Widow, which reflect her deep connection to the Philippines. In addition to her writing, Brainard is an advocate for Filipino literature and culture. She has been involved in various literary organizations and has participated in numerous writing workshops and conferences. Her efforts have helped promote the voices of Filipino writers both in the Philippines and abroad.