Get together with other readers across Australia for the 2026 National Simultaneous Storytime.
This year National Simultaneous Storytime takes place on Wednesday 27 May at 12pm (AEST) and will feature the book Luna Roo the Kangaroo Baller written by Adam Jackson and Adrian Lloyd and illustrated by Jake A Minton.
As Luna steps up to lead FC Outback in a thrilling face-off against Bush United, the rookie captain needs to find her inner strength on the field. She’s faced with a huntsman goalkeeper, snakes in attack and nerves that threaten to overcome her confidence. But Luna leaves nothing on the pitch as she learns to silence her doubts, believe in her skills and trust her teammates. Together, they rise to unexpected victory in this tale of courage and determination.
Everyone can join NSS, it doesn’t matter whether you are at home, a school, a public library or even a university library!
National Simultaneous Storytime is an annual campaign that aims to encourage more young Australians to read and enjoy books. Now in its 26th successful year, it is a colourful, vibrant, fun event that aims to promote the value of reading and literacy, using an Australian children’s book.
The event is a simultaneous read-aloud event held in libraries, schools, pre-schools, family homes, childcare centres, bookshops and many other places around the country.
Families and educators keen to join in the fun can register at alia.org.au/nss for FREE and have access to a variety of electronic downloads to support their NSS event including videos, audio recordings and a PDF copy of the book. Get together with your mums’ or dads’ group and join in on a NSS event at a local library.
Lake Mac Libraries Event
Lake Mac Libraries Simultaneous Storytime will be held from 10.30 – 11am at the following libraries:
- Belmont Library
- Charlestown Library
- Windale Library
Bookings are essential for this Storytime.
Find out more about Lake Mac Libraries Simultaneous Storytime.
Maitland City Library Event
TO BE CONFIRMED FOR 2026
Maitland Libraries operates four branches.
- Maitland Library
- East Maitland Library
- Rutherford Library
- Thornton Library
Check their website for details on their 2026 Simultaneous Storytime events.
Newcastle Libraries Event
Simultaneous Storytime will be held at 12 – 12.45pm at the following branches:
- Newcastle Library
No bookings required, just drop-in!
Find out more about Newcastle Libraries Simultaneous Storytime.
Cessnock Libraries
TO BE CONFIRMED FOR 2026
Check the Cessnock Library website for details on their 2026 Simultaneous Storytime event.
The book is available to purchase online. Purchase via Scholastic, Dymocks, Angus & Robertson, Macleans Booksellers, Harry Hartog in Kotara and Greenhills or wherever good books are sold.