Max M. Gulias’ novel, “Sarajevo: A Novel,” follows two individuals whose lives are forever altered by the Bosnian Civil War, illustrating the devastating impact of conflict and the enduring strength of the human spirit. An award-winning playwright, professional screenwriter, published scholar and teacher, Gulias draws upon his extensive background in literature, history, and cultural studies to craft a deeply moving and thought-provoking narrative. Set against the backdrop of 1990s “Sarajevo,” the novel, follows Sonja, a former ballerina turned Serbian militia sniper, and Faruk, a Muslim Bosnian ballet dancer whose family is destroyed by war. Though their paths never directly cross for most of the story, their lives become unexpectedly intertwined through tragedy, art, and fate. Gulias earned his Ph.D. in English Studies from Illinois State University and received the Ronald Williams Prize for Excellence in Playwriting in 2010.