Jack and Mary in the Land of Thieves by Andy Jones and illustrated by Darka Erdelj is a whimsical, warm-hearted folktale that captures the spirit of classic storytelling with a fresh, inventive twist. This richly imagined tale, the third in Jones’s beloved Jack Tales series, invites readers into a world where luck, love, and a clever heart make all the difference.
In this story, Jack—the quintessential everyman of folklore—begins life happily married to his ingenious and fearless wife Mary, who’s not only a baker of renown but also a partner equal to any adventure. Their comfortable life in the Lawless Land of Thieves, where honesty is rarer than gold, is disrupted when Jack’s boastfulness and a cunning sea captain’s tricks land him in servitude on the enigmatic Slave Islands.
Rather than shrivel in defeat, Mary cuts her hair, disguises herself as a seafarer, and takes command of her own vessel. She navigates both storm and danger, outwitting villains and righting wrongs to save both her husband and their fortune. Along the way, a singing mynah bird named Baxter becomes a source of comic relief and musical charm, with the book even including sheet music for Baxter’s lively tunes—a delightful bonus that encourages readers to sing along.
What sets this tale apart is the seamless blend of humour, adventure, and strong character work. Mary isn’t a side character—she’s the driving force of the narrative, resourceful and brave in her own right. Her ingenuity and resilience provide younger readers with a role model whose strengths go far beyond traditional expectations. The narrative’s rhythm and expressive language evoke oral storytelling traditions, making it a joy to read aloud.
Andy Jones is an award-winning Canadian storyteller, actor, writer, and director from St. John’s, Newfoundland. A former member of the comedy troupe CODCO, he has had a long and varied career in theatre, television, and film. As an author, Jones is praised for his vibrant retellings of Newfoundland folk tales, and Jack and Mary in the Land of Thieves notably won the 2012 BMO Winterset Award for excellence in literature. His work blends humour, regional voice, and narrative ingenuity, making him one of Canada’s most beloved contemporary storytellers.
Cherry Cake is mentioned in the books so thought you’d like to try the author’s wife, Noreen’s version in our Recipe section. An easy cake to whip up and delightful to enjoy with a cup of tea and a good book! You can purchase Jack and Mary’s adventures at Running the Goat Books & Broadsides or win a copy of “in the Land of Thieves” in our Giveaway section. Both cake and book will be consumed with a smile!
Darka Erdelj is an acclaimed Slovenian illustrator whose whimsical, expressive artwork has graced many of Jones’s Jack Tales. With a background in visual art and puppetry design, Erdelj brings a distinct folk-art sensibility to her work, rich in colour, movement, and character. Her illustrations have become integral to the charm of the Jack Tales, enchanting readers and helping to bring Newfoundland’s legendary characters and landscapes to life.
Erdelj’s illustrations are a visual feast. Her imaginative, folk-infused style—full of swirling seas, expressive figures, and playful marginalia—brings both energy and depth to the story. Erdelj has a knack for embedding visual jokes and subtle clues into her art, inviting readers to pore over the pages and uncover hidden details. These illustrations do more than complement the text; they elevate it, creating a truly immersive reading experience for children and adults alike.
Jack and Mary in the Land of Thieves is a treasure: a story of partnership, daring, and merriment that both celebrates and reinvents the legend of Jack. Whether shared at bedtime, read for pleasure, or explored in a classroom, this book stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling.
Content and images used with permission by Running the Goat Books & Broadsides. Running the Goat Books & Broadsides