Jay Ruud And Stacey Margaret Jones

Shows

Between The CoversAtwood’s Dystopian Novel Makes the ListThis week, Jay shares in-depth why the disturbing dystopian novel The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood is a lovable book, even as it envisions a future for the United States that is peak patriarchy. Chaos Reader reports on her presidential-biography reading project. 2025-07-0146 min

Between The CoversThe Wonderful World of Wodehouse’s WoostersJay’s List of the 100 Most Lovable Novels in English finally gets to one of his favorite writers when he discusses P.G. Wodehouse’s The Code of the Woosters, from which our culture gets the well-known Jeeves figure. Chaos reader goes again to the cookbook shelf for a volume by someone Americans love to hate. 2025-06-2438 min

Between The CoversA Timeless War Novel from More than a Century AgoThis week’s 100 Most Lovable Novels in the English Language entry is Stephen Crane’s The Red Badge of Courage, which Stacey knew was about a war, but not which war. Jay shares why it made his list and how it's as meaningful today as it was in 1895 when it was published. Chaos reader talks more about Richard Nixon by John A. Farrell. 2025-06-1736 min

Between The CoversKingsolver’s Conversation with Dickens: Demon CopperheadThis week’s entry on the 100 Most Lovable Books in the English Language List is Barbara Kingsolver’s Demon Copperhead… This beloved instant classic is popular for a reason. While it updates the eternally relevant Dickensian themes of David Copperfield, it also brings us something totally new and completely American. Chaos reader has also started a biography of a very American figure. 2025-06-1037 min

Between The CoversJane Austen’s Emma, with a Healthy Dose of Movie Talk Thrown InJane Austen set out to write a novel with an anti-hero: “A heroine whom no one but myself will much like,” she wrote about her goals for the book, so why is Emma so lovable? Of course, we couldn’t discuss this enjoyable book without spending time on the equally lovable film adaptations. Chaos reader shouts out a podcast, because, well… chaos. 2025-06-0344 min

Between The CoversPhilip Pullman's Subversive FantasyThis week, Jay goes rogue and chooses a whole trilogy of books as the next entry on his list of the 100 Most Lovable Novels in the English Language, Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials series. He and Stacey discuss the theology behind what Pullman never meant to be young-adult literature, even if the main characters are young people. The page-turning fantasy novels are a very engaging delivery device for a iconoclastic consideration of religious belief. Chaos reader checks in with a new-to-her book of poetry. 2025-05-2733 min

Between The CoversA Twentieth Century Take on a Legendary KingSomething in the King Arthur canon was bound to make it onto Jay’s list of the 100 Most Lovable Novels in the English Language, and this week Jay and Stacey discuss the linked novellas that comprise this modern classic, the historical influences on White and the new takes that make this novel officially Lovable. Chaos Reader finally gets reading again with one of the New York Times best fiction books of 2024. 2025-05-2038 min

Between The Covers"A Record of Hate More than Love"This week our married authors discuss Graham Greene’s The End of the Affair, the most recent entry on Jay Ruud’s list of the 100 Most Lovable Novels in the English Language. The novel focuses on the jealousy and obsession that come to the narrator Maurice after his lover Sarah ends their illicit relationship for her own reasons in the tumultuous time after WWII has ended in England. Chaos reader checks in with a cookery book. 2025-05-1336 min

Between The CoversAn Odd Best Friend with a God ComplexA coming-of-age story about two boys, Owen and John, growing up in the 1950s and 1960s in rural New Hampshire. While the premise may seem unremarkable and relatable, there is nothing normal about Owen. Chaos Reader also checks in with a recommendation for Princess Diana-philes. 2025-05-0645 min

Between The CoversAn Odd Best Friend with a God ComplexJay and Stacey discuss a shared favorite novel, John Irving’s A Prayer for Owen Meany, a coming-of-age story about two boys, Owen and John, growing up in the 1950s and 1960s in rural New Hampshire. While the premise may seem unremarkable and relatable, there is nothing normal about Owen. Chaos Reader also checks in with a recommendation for Princess Diana-philes. 2025-05-0441 min

Between The CoversThings We Love: Things Fall Apart by Chinua AchebeThis week’s entry on the 200 Most Lovable Novels in the English Language list is Things Fall Apart by Nigerian novelist Chinua Achebe. We talk about Okonkwo, whose life is destroyed by colonialism’s effects on his community. Even if it sounds heavy, Jay makes a case for its lovability and ranks it on his ongoing list. Chaos Reader also checks in. 2025-04-2939 min

Between The CoversJourney into Joseph Conrad's Heart of DarknessJay and Stacey discuss the iconic, influential novel (novella?) by Joseph Conrad, Heart of Darkness. The journey of the plot is also a journey of the soul for the characters and their country, as well as an indictment of colonialism. Chaos Reader also reports for duty. 2025-04-2246 min

Between The CoversSpend the Day with Mrs. Dalloway!Jay and Stacey discuss Virginia Woolf's masterpiece, entering the life of the mind of Clarissa Dalloway and her social set in this watershed novel of the early 20th century. Chaos reader talks about her own novel, Mr. Catherine. 2025-04-1541 min

Between The CoversThe Best of Best-Selling British Author Terry Pratchett's Novels: Night WatchThis week's entry on Jay Ruud's 100 Most Lovable Novels in the English Language is Terry Pratchett's Discworld novel, Night Watch, a time-traveling fantasy on a flat planet that considers the nature of power, the repetition of history and the role of the moral individual in relationship to autocratic government. And it's funny! Jay considers how he chose this novel from the pantheon of Pratchett's prolific output. And Chaos Reader confronts her reading block. 2025-04-0839 min

Between The CoversReturn to Old New York Guided by Edith Wharton's The Age of InnocenceJay's entry on his 100 Most Lovable Books List this week is one of Stacey's most loved books ever. Join them for their discussion of 1870s New York and its moneyed high society as Wharton's Newland Archer navigates his own conflicting desires for social convention or social rebellion. And chaos reader picks up another favorite reread as well. 2025-04-0141 min

Between The CoversOur Lovable Novels Guide to Douglas Adams' The Hitchhiker's Guide to the GalaxyJay and Stacey discuss the comedy-sci-fi twentieth-century classic The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams, chatting about the first novel in the franchise, which is the gateway-drug to the international sales juggernaut of the six-novel franchise. And chaos reader weighs in with a novel that feels completely opposite of Hitchhiker, Jane Eyre. 2025-03-2639 min

Between The CoversBig Feelings in a Small British Town in George Eliot's MiddlemarchJay and Stacey discuss a novel dear to both of their hearts, George Eliot's Middlemarch, where marriage, aspiration, ambition and social class shape the lives of characters in a small English community in the 1800s. Eliot has written of England's past in her lovable novel, just as Edith Wharton has written of the Old New York of her childhood in Chaos Reader's pick this week, The Age of Innocence. 2025-03-1846 min

Between The CoversGrandeur, Nostalgia and Family Drama in Evelyn Waugh's Brideshead RevisitedEven posh Brits have family problems, and Evelyn Waugh's exploration of the aristocratic Flyte family through the perspective of upwardly-mobile Charles Ryder touches on the allure of a bygone era, religion and the waning of privilege in 20th century Great Britain. Join us for a discussion of why this novel is lovable... and check in with Chaos Reader, too. 2025-03-1139 min

Between The CoversGoing Gothic in the Haunting Novel The Little StrangerSarah Waters' novel The Little Stranger is a surprise addition to the 100 Most Lovable Novels in the English Language list, but after this discussion of how this gothic novel illuminates 20th century Britain and the ghosts of past ways of life that may continue to haunt us all, you'll likely be adding it to your list. We introduce a new feature this week, a friend of the pod sharing her favorite book! This week Christine Ross talks about the Great Gatsby, and of course, Chaos Reader brings the random but worthwhile recommendation. 2025-03-0441 min

Between The CoversColson Whitehead's Beautifully Written Tragedy: The Nickel BoysJay and Stacey discuss Colson Whitehead's masterpiece, The Nickel Boys, and how the exploration of a great American tragedy can still produce a lovable novel. And chaos reader weighs in, too. 2025-02-2531 min

Between The CoversThe Truth of Fiction in All the King's MenJay and Stacey explore Robert Penn Warren's ALL THE KING'S MEN in this week's entry in Jay's list of the 100 Most Lovable Novels in the English Language. This 80-year-old American political novel is as relevant now as it was in 1946 when Warren crafted the story of the charismatic and flawed governor Willie Stark and the moral journey of those around him. 2025-02-1831 min

Between The CoversSisterhood trumps Patriarchy in The Color PurpleAlice Walker's Pulitzer-Prize winning novel The Color Purple is one of those Big Deal books, but what makes this story of the degradation and the triumph of two sisters in the American South lovable to read? Jay talks about why it landed on his list and Chaos Reader chimes in with this week's pick. 2025-02-1134 min

Between The CoversSo It Goes: Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse FiveBilly Pilgrim is unstuck in time. He survives the firebombing of Dresden and goes to the planet Tralfamador. But don't worry: Death is only in your imagination. #SlaughterhouseFive #KurtVonnegut #BookPodcast #Podcast #SciFiBooks #SoItGoes #Tralfamadore #ClassicBooks #BookTube #BetweenTheCovers #BookTok #BookLovers https://linktr.ee/betweenthecoverspodcast 2025-02-0432 min

Between The Covers🎁 Last-Minute Holiday Gift Ideas: Our Favorite Books to Give and Get! 📚✨It’s the most read-able time of the year! In this festive episode of Between the Covers with Jay and Stacey, we’re diving into the books that have made our holidays brighter—whether they were wrapped under the tree, gifted in a pinch, or devoured by the fireplace. Tune in to hear stories of favorite books, favorite gifted books, and a whole lot of last minute gift ideas. All the Links https://linktr.ee/betweenthecoverspodcast #ilovebooks #betweenthecovers #bestbooks #bestbookstoread #catcherintherye #jdsalinger #podcast #classicliterature #booktok #booklover #books #booktube...2024-12-2418 min

Between The CoversFrom Rags to Riches: The Charm of David CopperfieldPack your bags because we’re heading to Victorian England with David Copperfield—no, not the magician, the original hero of Charles Dickens’s masterpiece! This isn’t just another coming-of-age story; it’s a rollercoaster of life’s highs, lows, and all the colorful characters in between. In this episode of Between the Covers, we spill the tea on Dickens’s most personal novel, from slimy villains like Uriah Heep, to the ever-lovable Aunt Betsey. Dickens called this book his “favorite child.” Spoiler: It’s packed with drama, heart, and life lessons that still hit hard today. Don’t miss it! 2024-12-1735 min

Between The CoversDecoding the Mystique of The Catcher in the RyeHolden Caulfield is calling—and we’re answering! This week, we’re diving into J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye. Why does this angsty teenager’s story still resonate? Join us as Between The Covers looks at what makes this book unforgettable and where it belongs on the 100 most loveable books! https://linktr.ee/betweenthecoverspodcast #ilovebooks #betweenthecovers #bestbooks #bestbookstoread #catcherintherye #jdsalinger #podcast #classicliterature #booktok #booklover #books #booktube #bookreview #bookrecommendations 2024-12-1028 min

Between The CoversThe Midnight Miracle: How Rushdie Captured a Nation’s SoulIn this episode, we journey into the heart of Salman Rushdie’s “Midnight’s Children,” a novel that masterfully blends history with magical realism. We explore Rushdie’s rich prose, the novel’s profound themes, and its enduring impact on literature. Join us for an engaging discussion that will inspire you to experience this Booker Prize-winning masterpiece firsthand. Links https://linktr.ee/betweenthecoverspodcast 2024-12-0329 min

Between The CoversHow A Single Lie Changed Everything: A Deep Dive into “Atonement”Get ready to relive the emotional rollercoaster of Ian McEwan’s “Atonement”! In this special rerun, Jay and Stacey dive deep into this unforgettable story of love, betrayal, and the power of forgiveness. We’ll explore the twists and turns that make this novel a must-read and why it has secured a spot on our list of the 100 most lovable books. Whether it’s your first listen or you’re joining us again, this episode will reignite your passion for one of literature’s modern masterpieces. Don’t miss out—tune in and discover (or rediscover) why “Atonement” is a book that stays with...2024-11-2626 min

Between The CoversDown the Rabbit Hole: Watership Down, The Most Epic Bunny Saga Ever Told!Hold onto your carrots, folks! This week on Between the Covers, Jay and Stacey tumble down the rabbit hole into the wacky and wild world of Richard Adams’ Watership Down! We’re talking high-stakes bunny drama—think Game of Thrones but with more fur and fewer betrayals (well, maybe the same amount of betrayals). Join us as we discuss how a band of fluffy fugitives turned a quiet meadow into the setting for an epic adventure. If you’ve ever wanted to read rabbits as action heroes—this is the episode for you. 2024-11-1926 min

Between The CoversEscaping into Adventure: The Magic of Kavalier & Clay Revealed!Ready to dive into a world where magic, art, and superheroes collide? In this episode of Between the Covers with Jay and Stacey, we’re unmasking the brilliance of Michael Chabon’s The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay. Join us as we explore the thrilling escapades of two Jewish cousins in 1930s New York City who create a comic book superhero that takes the world by storm. From daring escapes and hidden magic tricks to the golden age of comics and the shadows of World War II, this novel is a rollercoaster of adventure, creativity, and heart. We’l...2024-11-1223 min

Between The CoversEpic Quests & Family Secrets – Inside Song of Solomon 🚀📚🌟 An adventure packed with mystery, magic, and unforgettable characters. We unravel Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison. Jay and Stacey take you on Milkman Dead’s epic journey—filled with family secrets, quests for identity, and the mystical allure of flight. We’ll break down why this novel is a must-read with its unforgettable characters and poetic prose that stay with you long after the final page. Plus Chaos Reader goes for the birds! Have a favorite book with a quest? Drop it in the comments! ✨Rate, review, and share this episode with fel...2024-11-0525 min

Between The CoversTales of Terror: The Genius of Edgar Allan Poe’s Short StoriesJust in time for Halloween, step into the dark, eerie world of Edgar Allan Poe! In this episode, Jay and Stacey crack open The Complete Short Stories of Edgar Allan Poe and dive into tales that blend horror, mystery, and the bizarre like only Poe can do. Why do these stories still have people sleeping with the lights on? Tune in to find out! Links JayRuud.com StaceyMargaretJones.com Amazon Treasure of Sherwood book https://a.co/d/2MRNdd8 2024-10-2935 min

Between The CoversRomance Under Fire: Why You’ll Fall for A Farewell to ArmsRomance, war, and heartbreak, all set against the chaotic backdrop of World War I. We’re talking A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway on Between The Covers. Jay and Stacey break down why this book deserves its spot on our list of the 100 most lovable books. We’ll explore how Hemingway’s sparse, yet powerful writing style pulls you into the doomed love affair between an American ambulance driver and a British nurse. Links JayRuud.com StaceyMargaretJones.com Amazon 2024-10-2233 min

Between The CoversFake News, Surveillance, and Control: What 1984 Teaches Us About TodayGet ready to dive deep into the chilling and thought-provoking world of George Orwell’s 1984! In this episode of Between The Covers, Jay and Stacey peel back the layers of one of the most iconic dystopian novels of all time. From the oppressive government of Big Brother to the eerie surveillance state, we’ll explore why 1984 feels as relevant today as ever. With its intense exploration of freedom, control, and the truth, this novel will have you questioning the world around you. Tune in for a fun, lively discussion where we unpack Orwell’s prophetic vision, and discover why 1984 is a m...2024-10-1529 min

Between The CoversLove, Lies, and Champagne! The Great Gatsby is Still a Vibe! Alright, book lovers, it’s time to party like it’s the Roaring Twenties! 🎉 In this episode of Between the Covers, Jay and Stacey are breaking down one of the most iconic stories ever: The Great Gatsby! What’s the deal with those crazy parties, that mysterious green light, and a guy who’s obsessed with winning over Daisy Buchanan? We’re diving into the glitz, the glam, and the drama—because Gatsby’s world is full of secrets, heartbreak, and champagne! 🍾 If you haven’t read this book yet, you’ll want to after this episode! Trust us, it’s more than...2024-10-0825 min

Between The CoversWhy Tim O’Brien’s "The Things They Carried" Will Change How You See War ForeverGet ready for a heart-wrenching, thought-provoking journey with "The Things They Carried" by Tim O’Brien. In this episode of Between the Covers, Jay and Stacey unpack the emotional weight and physical burdens carried by a group of soldiers during the Vietnam War. But it’s not just a war story—this book blends truth and fiction in ways that’ll keep you turning pages. It’s about memory, survival, and the things that stay with us long after the battle is over. Join us as we dig into why this novel made the list of the 100 most lovable books and...2024-10-0128 min

Between The CoversBONUS EPISODE - “Special Banned Books Week Edition: Revisiting To Kill a Mockingbird”📚 Special Banned Books Week Episode! 🚨 We’re diving back into one of our most iconic episodes: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee! This beloved classic is also one of the most banned books of all time—yet its lessons about justice, empathy, and courage are more important than ever. Join Jay and Stacey as we break down why this book remains a must-read. 🎙️ Want to fight against book bans? Here’s how: •Support your local library! 📚 •Join or create a book club. •Share your favorite banned books with others! Watch the...2024-09-2640 min

Between The CoversA Wild Literary Ride You Never Saw Coming! - “Pale Fire” by Vladimir NabokovOur TENTH Episode! We're celebrating with signed book giveaways! Rate our podcast and leave a review, commenting on what YOUR favorite book is and we'll choose a winner at random to receive signed copies of "Treasure of Sherwood" by Jay Ruud and "Mr. Catherine" by Stacey Margaret Jones. Thanks for sticking around! In this episode of Between the Covers with Jay and Stacey, we dive into the brilliantly bizarre world of Pale Fire by Vladimir Nabokov. Imagine a 999-line poem written by a fictional poet, followed by an even stranger commentary by a m...2024-09-2431 min

Between The CoversIs the American Dream a lie? Or is Babbitt having a midlife crisis? - “Babbitt” by Sinclair LewisIn this episode of Between The Covers, Jay and Stacey dive into the world of Babbitt by Sinclair Lewis, a sharp, witty satire of American middle-class life. Set in the 1920s, Babbitt follows George F. Babbitt, a real estate agent stuck in a life of conformity, who begins to question everything around him. Is the American Dream all it’s cracked up to be, or is Babbitt just in a midlife crisis? We’ll break down why this novel still resonates today, from its hilarious social commentary to its critique of materialism. Tune in to find out why Babbitt has...2024-09-1731 min

Between The CoversYour Heart Will Break & You’ll Love Every Minute! - “Never Let Me Go” 💔📚In Episode 8 of Between The Covers, Jay and Stacey dive into Kazuo Ishiguro’s haunting and unforgettable novel, Never Let Me Go. What makes this dystopian story so lovable, despite its emotional intensity? We unravel the mysteries, explore the powerful themes of memory, identity, and loss, and explain why this book has captured the hearts of so many. If you’re a fan of stories that stay with you long after the last page, you won’t want to miss this one! 📖✨ Links JayRuud.com StaceyMargaretJones.com Ama...2024-09-1027 min

Between The CoversObsession and Revenge on the High Seas in Moby DickDive into the depths with Jay and Stacey on this episode of Between The Covers as they explore the polarizing classic, Moby Dick! 🐋 Some think the book is boring, but Jay explains why he believes this captivating tale of obsession, revenge, and humanity’s battle with nature deserves a place on the list of 100 most lovable books. Links JayRuud.com StaceyMargaretJones.com Amazon Treasure of Sherwood book Mr. Catherine book Publishers Encircle Publications...2024-09-0332 min

Between The CoversLove Lies and Redemption in “Atonement”In this episode of Between the Covers, Jay and Stacey dive into Ian McEwan’s novel, Atonement. They explore the complex themes of guilt, love, and redemption that permeate the story, discussing why it deserves a spot on the “100 Lovable Books” list. Join Jay and Stacey as they uncover the emotional depth of McEwan’s characters, and reflect on the lasting impact of a single lie. Share this episode with your fellow book lovers and please give us a rating. Links JayRuud.com StaceyMargaretJones.com Amazon ...2024-08-2725 min

Between The CoversHistory Meets Drama in “Wolf Hall"Jay and Stacey travel back in time to discuss Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall. From the cunning charm of Thomas Cromwell to the intricate politics of Henry VIII’s court, they reveal why this historical fiction masterpiece is a must-read and why it belongs on the 100 most lovable books list. Plus, CHAOS READER returns with another random read! Please give us a rating and share this episode with your fellow book lovers. Links JayRuud.com StaceyMargaretJones.com Amazon Treasure of Sherwood book Mr. Cathe...2024-08-2024 min

Between The Covers"To Kill a Mockingbird" Between The Covers Ep 4“Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy… That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.” Coming up next on Between The Covers, racism, prejudice, and the loss of innocence take center stage in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. Join Jay and Stacey as they dive deep into this beloved novel and discuss where it ranks on the 100 Loveable Book list. This week’s CHAOS READER takes us near Stacey’s childhood home. If you’re enjoying our show, please give us a rating and tell your friends.2024-08-1334 min

Between The Covers"Brave New World" Between The Covers Ep3"Impudent strumpet!" Up next on Between The Covers is Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World. Listen in as Jay and Stacey delve into why this beloved yet controversial book deserves a spot on the 100 Lovable Books list and where it ranks. Plus, don’t miss the CHAOS READER segment! Please like, share, and subscribe! Poem mentioned in the episode Dover Beach by Mathew Arnold Links JayRuud.com StaceyMargaretJones.com Amazon Treasure of Sherwood book Mr. Catheri...2024-08-0627 min

Between The Covers"Catch 22" Between The Covers Ep 2"That's some catch, that CATCH-22" Episode 2 of Between the Covers finds married authors Jay Ruud and Stacey Margaret Jones breaking down Joseph Heller's Catch 22 and why in belongs on the 100 Lovable Books list. Plus Chaos reader returns and it's not a Presidential biography. Like and subscribe to never miss an episode. Also, leave a review which helps other listeners find the show! Links Dover Beach by Mathew Arnold JayRuud.com StaceyMargaretJones.com Amazon Treasure of Sherwood book Mr. Cath...2024-07-3031 min

Between The CoversPride and Prejudice Between The CoversIt is a truth universally acknowledged that any list of lovable books must include Jane Austen's PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, and married authors Jay Ruud and Stacey Margaret Jones break down why they love the book, what's not to love and where it ranks on the master list of 100 Lovable Books so far. Links JayRuud.com StaceyMargaretJones.com Amazon Treasure of Sherwood book Mr. Catherine book Encircle Publications https://encirclepub.com/encircle-author/jay-ruud/ 2024-07-2820 min

Between The CoversTrailer Between The CoversThere are hundreds of 100 Best Books list but none of them are curated by author Jay Ruud...until now. Get ready to dive into a world of delightful reads with Jay’s “100 Lovable Books” list! Each week, he and his wife, Author Stacey Margaret Jones, introduce and explore one lovable book per episode. 2024-07-1802 min