Author, film director Sayles to appear Jan. 20 in Berkeley for new book

While writing his new historical novel, “Crucible,” film director, screenwriter, actor and author John Sayles unearthed multiple discoveries.

Recognized and acclaimed as a filmmaker whose deep research and knowledge undergirds his award-winning movies such as “The Brother from Another Planet,” “Matewan,” “Eight Men Out,” “Passion Fish,” “Lone Star,” and others, Sayles’ novels and short stories involve similar, intense preparatory investigations. His creative process has produced a vast array of stories that touch on race...