The Lit Salon is an intimate literary salon set to candlelight.

Upcoming Events

The Art Spy: The Extraordinary Untold Tale of WWII Resistance Hero Rose Valland

June 4, 2025

7:30- 10 p.m.
Barrington Hall, Great Barrington

An Evening with Author Michelle Young in conversation with David Berliner, former President of The Brooklyn Museum

Presented by Barrington Hall and Books & Cake

The Lit Salon has moved to the Berkshires! For our first event in our new location, we welcome award-winning journalist Michelle Young for the paperback launch of her acclaimed book, The Art Spy: The Extraordinary Untold Tale of World War II Resistance Hero Rose Valland. (A Best Book of 2025: New York Public Library)

In conversation with former Brooklyn Museum President, David Berliner, Michelle will discuss the remarkable true story behind The Art Spy, the years of research that brought Rose Valland's extraordinary courage to light, and the journey of bringing this celebrated work to readers around the world. The evening will conclude with audience Q&A, followed by a book signing. To commemorate the paperback launch, Barrington Hall will feature a signature French 75 cocktail—a nod to wartime France—alongside our full bar.

As Barrington Hall's literary partner, Books & Cake will offer copies of The Art Spy for purchase throughout the evening, with signed editions available after the program.

Tickets

Praise for The Lit Salon!

“I’m coming to every single one ever.”

- Sarah Maslin Nir, author, journalist & two-time finalist for the Pulitzer Prize

“This is why we live in New York.”

Michael Cannell, author & journalist

“You’re ruined now! You’ll never see another book talk as fabulous as this one!”

- Debby Applegate, Pulitzer Prize winning biographer

The Lit Salon is hosted by author and journalist Michelle Young, featuring candlelit conversations with award-winning authors at the release of their latest books.

Guests will be welcomed with a specialty cocktail inspired by the book and a musical performance by The Brownstone Trio will open each event, followed by an author conversation, book signing, and mingling with complimentary drinks. The Lit Salon can also be joined virtually.

Maison Brooklyn

The Lit Salon now takes place in Barrington Hall int the Berkshires. It formerly took place in the parlor of Maison Brooklyn, an 1890s townhouse that was lovingly restored and modernized by Michelle Young and Augustin Pasquet with re-ad architecture.

The home was a finalist for the 2023 NYCxDESIGN award’s House Renovation category. Together, Michelle and Augustin run Maison Brooklyn, a real estate rental and property management company specializing in historic homes.

Our Partners

Aerangis

Aerangis (Air-ANG-giss) began with a simple mission: to use the power of fragrance to unlock forgotten memories and to immortalize moments worth remembering. Aerangis candles are cruelty-free, plant-based, and eco-conscious. Each candle is carefully hand-poured in small batches in the USA inside artisanal clay jars from the historic Shuili Snake Kiln in Taiwan. The Lit Salon features the Aerangis signature scent, Seven Miles. Get 10% off your purchase using our discount link.

Untapped New York

Untapped New York is an online magazine and experience company that reveals New York City’s secrets and hidden places. Experience NYC’s hidden gems in person with expert local guides, or access the city’s most off limits places by joining a community of passionate Untapped New York Insider members. Get your first month off Insiders with code JOINUS which offers free tickets to The Lit Salon livestream and other exciting events in New York City.

Ode à la Rose Flower Shop

Ode à la Rose is one-of-a-kind florist that provides flower delivery with a French touch. Their artisanal flower bouquets are made with only the freshest flowers and packaged beautifully. Bouquets designed the French way & delivered same day in NYC, Chicago, Philly, LA, Austin, D.C., & Miami, and next day nationwide. Use code LITSALON for 20% off!

Fort Hamilton Distillery

Based in Brooklyn and surrounded by landmarks of the Revolutionary War, Fort Hamilton Distillery started barreling whisky in 2016. On a mission to recapture America’s finest spirits, Fort Hamilton celebrates America’s original whiskey style, New York Rye. This style was the most popular libation in America pre-prohibition and serves as the base for the most discerning classic American cocktails.