[2] He is the author of the first Philippine novel written in the English language, A Child of Sorrow, published in 1921.

[3] Galang was born on July 27, 1895, in the town of Bacolor, Pampanga to Santiago Galang and Vicenta Mercado during the later years of the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines and was influenced by both Spanish and American culture in his youth.

He is known for being responsible for the first publication of several Philippine works in English:[2] His essays were also published in The Best Thing in the World and Master of Destiny (both published in 1924):[2] He also worked to get 20 volumes of encyclopedia featuring Philippine-related subjects in 1957.

The publication of such collection was hindered due to its manuscript being burned during World War II yet they were successfully able to publish the 3rd edition after the fires.

He also worked as a writer of history publications for use of elementary students such as Leaders of the Philippines (1932), Important Characters in Philippine History (1939), Mario and Minda (1940), Hero of Tirad Pass and Others (1949), Mr. Perez, Teacher (1950) and Home, School and Community (1950).