Authors on Tap: Susan Blumberg-Kason and Rachel DeWoskin | Exile in Bookville

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Join us at Exile in Bookville in Chicago on November 8th, 2023 for the exciting event, "Authors on Tap: Susan Blumberg-Kason and Rachel DeWoskin." This event celebrates the release of Susan Blumberg-Kason's new book, "Bernardine's Shanghai Salon: The Story of the Doyenne of Old China." Susan will be joined in conversation by Rachel DeWoskin. "Bernardine's Shanghai Salon" tells the captivating story of Bernardine Szold Fritz, a Jewish woman who found herself in 1930s Shanghai amidst political intrigue and scandal. She created a salon in her home, bringing together Chinese and expats from the world of politics, arts, and intelligentsia. Famous names like Emily Hahn, Sir Victor Sassoon, and Sinmay Zau were introduced at her gatherings. Bernardine even organized events to connect Hollywood stars Anna May Wong, Charlie Chaplin, and Claudette Colbert with their Shanghai contemporaries. Unable to accommodate all those who wanted to attend her salon, Bernardine founded the International Arts Theater, pushing audiences beyond their comfort zones with avant-garde plays, ballets, lectures, and visual arts exhibits. As civil war and World War II loomed, Bernardine's devotion to the arts brought joy to Shanghai just before the city underwent significant change. Susan Blumberg-Kason is the author of "Bernardine's Shanghai Salon" and "Good Chinese Wife: A Love Affair with China Gone Wrong." Rachel DeWoskin is the author of five critically acclaimed novels and the memoir "Foreign Babes in Beijing." Both authors will be available to sign and personalize copies of their books after the event. This is a free, in-person event, but registration is required. Don't miss the chance to attend this fascinating discussion and explore the rich history of Bernardine's Shanghai Salon.