JY Saville
@jysaville.bsky.social
Writer, reader, northerner. Not necessarily in that order.
See also https://jacquelinesaville.substack.com/ and https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/jysaville
See also https://jacquelinesaville.substack.com/ and https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/jysaville
Pinned
JY Saville
@jysaville.bsky.social
· Jul 27
Short story: The Devil Has All The Best Tunes
In tribute to Ozzy Osbourne, and all he gave us
jacquelinesaville.substack.com
By way of an Ozzy tribute I shared an unpublished story from 2021 that deals with the centrality of both tea and metal to some people's lives (mine for instance) & is heavily influenced by Pratchett & Gaiman jacquelinesaville.substack.com/p/short-stor...
Ran across a note from 2022, when I was researching for my Hexham book festival commission, and I needed to share:
John Wallis in the Natural History and Antiquities of Northumberland (1769) referred to a jellyfish as ‘the large loco-motive Sea Nettle’
Thanks. As you were.
John Wallis in the Natural History and Antiquities of Northumberland (1769) referred to a jellyfish as ‘the large loco-motive Sea Nettle’
Thanks. As you were.
December 1, 2025 at 5:18 PM
Ran across a note from 2022, when I was researching for my Hexham book festival commission, and I needed to share:
John Wallis in the Natural History and Antiquities of Northumberland (1769) referred to a jellyfish as ‘the large loco-motive Sea Nettle’
Thanks. As you were.
John Wallis in the Natural History and Antiquities of Northumberland (1769) referred to a jellyfish as ‘the large loco-motive Sea Nettle’
Thanks. As you were.
Just scrolled past something I can’t find again, which I think was suggesting Black Friday ought to be a celebration of goth. I would very much be behind this idea.
Come on 6Music, you know it makes sense.
Come on 6Music, you know it makes sense.
November 28, 2025 at 12:36 PM
Just scrolled past something I can’t find again, which I think was suggesting Black Friday ought to be a celebration of goth. I would very much be behind this idea.
Come on 6Music, you know it makes sense.
Come on 6Music, you know it makes sense.
Reposted by JY Saville
I'll be pulling down the shutters on the crossword shop at the end of Sunday, so get your bespoke puzzle orders in now! NOW I SAY!
Is there a crossword person in your life? Would you like to get them a unique gift? PERHAPS FOR CHRISTMAS?
Well maybe a bespoke quiz or cryptic crossword would fit the bill, on any theme, of any size, by the author of [counts on fingers] more than 900 published crosswords, i.e. Me. Give me a shout!
Well maybe a bespoke quiz or cryptic crossword would fit the bill, on any theme, of any size, by the author of [counts on fingers] more than 900 published crosswords, i.e. Me. Give me a shout!
November 21, 2025 at 11:23 AM
I'll be pulling down the shutters on the crossword shop at the end of Sunday, so get your bespoke puzzle orders in now! NOW I SAY!
Reposted by JY Saville
One of the things people don’t realise is that only about 15% (at most) of food price paid at the till goes to the farmer in the most ‘advanced’ versions of this food system
There is some evidence that on average farmers actually subsidise such system with their free or sub cost labour
There is some evidence that on average farmers actually subsidise such system with their free or sub cost labour
“92% of [UK] farmers think the greatest threat to the long-term growth of British farming is the government.” While farmers go bankrupt, “Food prices have risen by around 37% in the last five years.” Who is this serving? Without small farmers, we have no food, no nature & environment, no security.
November 20, 2025 at 1:35 PM
One of the things people don’t realise is that only about 15% (at most) of food price paid at the till goes to the farmer in the most ‘advanced’ versions of this food system
There is some evidence that on average farmers actually subsidise such system with their free or sub cost labour
There is some evidence that on average farmers actually subsidise such system with their free or sub cost labour
Reposted by JY Saville
My great-grandad was a piano tuner from Huddersfield. He was conscripted into the army during the First World War, and had an awful time. After I found out a bit about what he went through, I wrote a short story. I thought today might be a good day to share it. richarddsmyth.com/2025/11/09/n...
New short story: ‘FP Number Two’
The sky shivers with fever and there are devils on the roofs of the public houses.
richarddsmyth.com
November 9, 2025 at 8:56 AM
My great-grandad was a piano tuner from Huddersfield. He was conscripted into the army during the First World War, and had an awful time. After I found out a bit about what he went through, I wrote a short story. I thought today might be a good day to share it. richarddsmyth.com/2025/11/09/n...
Reposted by JY Saville
Is there a crossword person in your life? Would you like to get them a unique gift? PERHAPS FOR CHRISTMAS?
Well maybe a bespoke quiz or cryptic crossword would fit the bill, on any theme, of any size, by the author of [counts on fingers] more than 900 published crosswords, i.e. Me. Give me a shout!
Well maybe a bespoke quiz or cryptic crossword would fit the bill, on any theme, of any size, by the author of [counts on fingers] more than 900 published crosswords, i.e. Me. Give me a shout!
November 3, 2025 at 11:35 AM
Is there a crossword person in your life? Would you like to get them a unique gift? PERHAPS FOR CHRISTMAS?
Well maybe a bespoke quiz or cryptic crossword would fit the bill, on any theme, of any size, by the author of [counts on fingers] more than 900 published crosswords, i.e. Me. Give me a shout!
Well maybe a bespoke quiz or cryptic crossword would fit the bill, on any theme, of any size, by the author of [counts on fingers] more than 900 published crosswords, i.e. Me. Give me a shout!
Reposted by JY Saville
🚨 LAST CHANCE! 🚨 Writers in West Yorkshire, want to break into screenwriting? The Mayor’s Script Diversity Programme is your shot. Masterclasses, mentoring & industry networking. Apps close MIDNIGHT Sunday 5 Oct. Apply now 👉 https://www.screenyorkshire.co.uk/the-mayors-script-diversity-programme/
October 3, 2025 at 10:31 AM
🚨 LAST CHANCE! 🚨 Writers in West Yorkshire, want to break into screenwriting? The Mayor’s Script Diversity Programme is your shot. Masterclasses, mentoring & industry networking. Apps close MIDNIGHT Sunday 5 Oct. Apply now 👉 https://www.screenyorkshire.co.uk/the-mayors-script-diversity-programme/
Reposted by JY Saville
Applications for the Mayor’s Script Diversity Programme close midnight Sunday 5 Oct. Free masterclasses, mentoring & networking for West Yorkshire writers ready to break into film & TV. Apply now:
The Mayor's Script Diversity Programme - Screen Yorkshire
www.screenyorkshire.co.uk
September 30, 2025 at 9:44 AM
Applications for the Mayor’s Script Diversity Programme close midnight Sunday 5 Oct. Free masterclasses, mentoring & networking for West Yorkshire writers ready to break into film & TV. Apply now:
Reposted by JY Saville
I am to be let out, and poked until I speak. My first talk in AGES - please do come along, if you're in the north-east. Books, birds, all that sort of thing. www.nhsn.org.uk/events/richa...
Richard Smyth: A Nature Writer at Large
An evening with nature writer Richard Smyth in the NHSN Council RoomRichard Smyth is one of the UK's busiest nature writers. His most recent book, The Jay, the Beech and the Limpetshell: Finding Wild ...
www.nhsn.org.uk
September 30, 2025 at 1:20 PM
I am to be let out, and poked until I speak. My first talk in AGES - please do come along, if you're in the north-east. Books, birds, all that sort of thing. www.nhsn.org.uk/events/richa...
Reposted by JY Saville
By and large publishing can only pay advances that are not enough for authors to live on.
Authors therefore require other means to support their writing.
Publishing needs more voices from marginalised communities.
Which communities have the means to support their writing?
Not the marginalised ones.
Authors therefore require other means to support their writing.
Publishing needs more voices from marginalised communities.
Which communities have the means to support their writing?
Not the marginalised ones.
September 27, 2025 at 11:49 AM
By and large publishing can only pay advances that are not enough for authors to live on.
Authors therefore require other means to support their writing.
Publishing needs more voices from marginalised communities.
Which communities have the means to support their writing?
Not the marginalised ones.
Authors therefore require other means to support their writing.
Publishing needs more voices from marginalised communities.
Which communities have the means to support their writing?
Not the marginalised ones.
Reposted by JY Saville
What was the first book you remember loving as a child? Have your reading habits changed since childhood? Are there any books you return to, time and time again? 📚
September 15, 2025 at 2:35 PM
What was the first book you remember loving as a child? Have your reading habits changed since childhood? Are there any books you return to, time and time again? 📚
Reposted by JY Saville
Applications are open for The Mayor’s Script Diversity Programme, a course designed to help writers from underrepresented groups pivot into screenwriting. 👉 Find out more and apply here: https://www.screenyorkshire.co.uk/the-mayors-script-diversity-programme/
September 15, 2025 at 9:02 AM
Applications are open for The Mayor’s Script Diversity Programme, a course designed to help writers from underrepresented groups pivot into screenwriting. 👉 Find out more and apply here: https://www.screenyorkshire.co.uk/the-mayors-script-diversity-programme/
Reposted by JY Saville
I've been writing a weekly serial for the past four years and it's reaching its conclusion in the next couple of months. Seemed like a good moment to re-introduce it!
Check it out if you're into crime fiction, science fiction and fantasy mash-ups.
open.substack.com/pub/simonkjo...
Check it out if you're into crime fiction, science fiction and fantasy mash-ups.
open.substack.com/pub/simonkjo...
What is Tales from the Triverse all about?
Let me tell you a story
open.substack.com
September 8, 2025 at 7:55 AM
I've been writing a weekly serial for the past four years and it's reaching its conclusion in the next couple of months. Seemed like a good moment to re-introduce it!
Check it out if you're into crime fiction, science fiction and fantasy mash-ups.
open.substack.com/pub/simonkjo...
Check it out if you're into crime fiction, science fiction and fantasy mash-ups.
open.substack.com/pub/simonkjo...
Yes this is a naff photo of a kingfisher, but importantly *I saw a kingfisher* which is very exciting.
September 7, 2025 at 5:32 PM
Yes this is a naff photo of a kingfisher, but importantly *I saw a kingfisher* which is very exciting.
@claireymary77.bsky.social no more In Our Time with Melvyn! Loads of back catalogue to go at but it won’t be the same without him.
September 3, 2025 at 6:51 PM
@claireymary77.bsky.social no more In Our Time with Melvyn! Loads of back catalogue to go at but it won’t be the same without him.
Reposted by JY Saville
Did a thread. TL/DR give all your money to refugees please and fuck that other lot.
I've done most of my Great North Run training this summer along the North Sea coast. I love the North Sea. I love it (I've always loved it) but it's a monster. (1/?)
September 1, 2025 at 10:50 AM
Did a thread. TL/DR give all your money to refugees please and fuck that other lot.
Reposted by JY Saville
The wait is over, sales are open! Book your tickets now for the 2025 Festival, 3-19 October 🤩📖🥳
So peruse the programme, pick your favourites, and book your tickets now!
Online: www.ilkleyliteraturefestival.org.uk/whats-on
By phone: 01943 816714
So peruse the programme, pick your favourites, and book your tickets now!
Online: www.ilkleyliteraturefestival.org.uk/whats-on
By phone: 01943 816714
August 26, 2025 at 10:23 AM
The wait is over, sales are open! Book your tickets now for the 2025 Festival, 3-19 October 🤩📖🥳
So peruse the programme, pick your favourites, and book your tickets now!
Online: www.ilkleyliteraturefestival.org.uk/whats-on
By phone: 01943 816714
So peruse the programme, pick your favourites, and book your tickets now!
Online: www.ilkleyliteraturefestival.org.uk/whats-on
By phone: 01943 816714
If this looks like a magical place you might want to read about, I wrote about a book of essays about life in Withernsea today: open.substack.com/pub/jacqueli...
August 11, 2025 at 8:09 PM
If this looks like a magical place you might want to read about, I wrote about a book of essays about life in Withernsea today: open.substack.com/pub/jacqueli...
Reposted by JY Saville
I'm hosting a poetry event as part of Chapel Allerton Arts Festival next month. Tuesday 26 August at Brew+Bao on Stainbeck Lane. Headliner will be the wonderful @wendypratt.bsky.social, supported by Liz McPherson, plus an open mic. Come! chapelallerton.org.uk/poetry/
Poetry – Chapel Allerton Arts Festival
chapelallerton.org.uk
August 4, 2025 at 2:19 PM
I'm hosting a poetry event as part of Chapel Allerton Arts Festival next month. Tuesday 26 August at Brew+Bao on Stainbeck Lane. Headliner will be the wonderful @wendypratt.bsky.social, supported by Liz McPherson, plus an open mic. Come! chapelallerton.org.uk/poetry/
Reposted by JY Saville
Poetry lovers! BBC Radio lovers! Music lovers! This one is for YOU.
BBC Contains Strong Language Festival is coming to Bradford for the first time. What a line up 😍
BBC Contains Strong Language Festival is coming to Bradford for the first time. What a line up 😍
All events are now bookable for the BBC Contains Strong Language festival coming to Bradford 18-21 September! We're proud partners, alongside BBC Arts and Bradford City of Culture, in bringing CSL to Bradford for the first time.
Book now! bradford2025.co.uk/programme/bbc-contains-strong-language/
Book now! bradford2025.co.uk/programme/bbc-contains-strong-language/
August 4, 2025 at 11:42 AM
Poetry lovers! BBC Radio lovers! Music lovers! This one is for YOU.
BBC Contains Strong Language Festival is coming to Bradford for the first time. What a line up 😍
BBC Contains Strong Language Festival is coming to Bradford for the first time. What a line up 😍
Ran across this from Punch in 1842 worrying about steam power; naturally made me think of genAI
‘if all labour done by man were suddenly performed by machine power, and that power in the possession of some thousand individuals, -what would be the cry of the rest…Would not the shout be -Share, share?
‘if all labour done by man were suddenly performed by machine power, and that power in the possession of some thousand individuals, -what would be the cry of the rest…Would not the shout be -Share, share?
August 2, 2025 at 1:26 PM
Ran across this from Punch in 1842 worrying about steam power; naturally made me think of genAI
‘if all labour done by man were suddenly performed by machine power, and that power in the possession of some thousand individuals, -what would be the cry of the rest…Would not the shout be -Share, share?
‘if all labour done by man were suddenly performed by machine power, and that power in the possession of some thousand individuals, -what would be the cry of the rest…Would not the shout be -Share, share?
Reposted by JY Saville
I've worked in publishing for 35yrs and in that time the market has inexorably driven down the quality of the environment for authors. Self publishing changed some things but this (below) is an accurate picture of the experience for the vast majority of authors.
Please talk up books you've enjoyed.
Please talk up books you've enjoyed.
Yeah so I've been feeling a sort of way.
Look this is long but I've put pictures in it and it is full-velocity me throwing my toys out the pram territory so you should at least find that amusing, okay?
emfaulds.com/a-writers-jo...
Look this is long but I've put pictures in it and it is full-velocity me throwing my toys out the pram territory so you should at least find that amusing, okay?
emfaulds.com/a-writers-jo...
I wish I’d written a bad story - E.M. Faulds Scottish science fiction and fantasy author
Warning for high salt-content. I'm tired. I'm not the only one. I was discussing with a fellow author this morning, about how it feels like the Hunger Games* out there. Authors scrabbling and brawling...
emfaulds.com
August 1, 2025 at 4:19 PM
I've worked in publishing for 35yrs and in that time the market has inexorably driven down the quality of the environment for authors. Self publishing changed some things but this (below) is an accurate picture of the experience for the vast majority of authors.
Please talk up books you've enjoyed.
Please talk up books you've enjoyed.
By way of an Ozzy tribute I shared an unpublished story from 2021 that deals with the centrality of both tea and metal to some people's lives (mine for instance) & is heavily influenced by Pratchett & Gaiman jacquelinesaville.substack.com/p/short-stor...
Short story: The Devil Has All The Best Tunes
In tribute to Ozzy Osbourne, and all he gave us
jacquelinesaville.substack.com
July 27, 2025 at 4:45 PM
By way of an Ozzy tribute I shared an unpublished story from 2021 that deals with the centrality of both tea and metal to some people's lives (mine for instance) & is heavily influenced by Pratchett & Gaiman jacquelinesaville.substack.com/p/short-stor...
This has made me realise how inadequate my butterfly identification skills are. Common or holly blue? Meadow brown or gatekeeper? Large or small white? It’s ok if they’re sat on a buddleia for half an hour but most are fluttering past. By August 10th, hopefully, I will have improved.
The Big Butterfly Count 2025 is here and butterflies need our help 🦋🚨
This isn't just a survey, it's a rescue mission, and we need everyone to get involved.
No lab coats. No science degrees. Just 15 minutes of your time. ⏱️
Get out for the count 👉 bigbutterflycount.org
This isn't just a survey, it's a rescue mission, and we need everyone to get involved.
No lab coats. No science degrees. Just 15 minutes of your time. ⏱️
Get out for the count 👉 bigbutterflycount.org
July 18, 2025 at 10:59 AM
This has made me realise how inadequate my butterfly identification skills are. Common or holly blue? Meadow brown or gatekeeper? Large or small white? It’s ok if they’re sat on a buddleia for half an hour but most are fluttering past. By August 10th, hopefully, I will have improved.
Reposted by JY Saville
We’ve Just opened our first open submissions window for working-class writers.
We’re looking for stories that capture something about being working class in Britain in 2025. Can be fiction or non-fiction, & 500-3000 words long.
Please pitch us.
Details here:
thebeemagazine.com/open-call-fo...
We’re looking for stories that capture something about being working class in Britain in 2025. Can be fiction or non-fiction, & 500-3000 words long.
Please pitch us.
Details here:
thebeemagazine.com/open-call-fo...
Open Call for Submissions
Send us your ideas for stories you’d like to write for the Bee.
thebeemagazine.com
July 14, 2025 at 6:44 PM
We’ve Just opened our first open submissions window for working-class writers.
We’re looking for stories that capture something about being working class in Britain in 2025. Can be fiction or non-fiction, & 500-3000 words long.
Please pitch us.
Details here:
thebeemagazine.com/open-call-fo...
We’re looking for stories that capture something about being working class in Britain in 2025. Can be fiction or non-fiction, & 500-3000 words long.
Please pitch us.
Details here:
thebeemagazine.com/open-call-fo...