On Wednesday 27 May, Luna Roo the Kangaroo Baller by Adam Jackson and Adrian Lough, illustrated by Jake A. Minton, was read simultaneously in libraries, schools, early learning settings and homes across the country, uniting communities in a shared reading experience. National Simultaneous Storytime once again brought the joy of shared reading to life across Australia, delighting young readers nationwide. As one of the most anticipated literacy events on the calendar, NSS continues to highlight the powerful role that stories play in fostering connection, imagination and a lifelong love of reading.
Here at the library, we were excited to support this year’s celebration as our primary students came together to share in the reading of Luna Roo the Kangaroo Baller. Students were active participants throughout, enthusiastically calling out “You can do it!” each time Luna Roo’s name was mentioned and cheering a joyful “Woohoo!” during key match moments. This collective energy created a vibrant and engaging reading experience that truly captured the spirit of National Simultaneous Storytime.
Following the story, our Year 5 and 6 students took part in a creative and engaging activity, designing their own football jerseys inspired by Luna Roo’s passion for the game. This hands on experience provided a fun and meaningful way for students to connect with the text, express their creativity and celebrate the excitement and teamwork at the heart of the story. The library also supported NSS with themed bookmarks and a wonderful display of soccer reads, offering plenty of options for our budding fans to continue their reading beyond the event.
Events such as NSS not only promote literacy but also affirm the importance of storytelling as a communal act, one that brings people together and nurtures empathy, identity and belonging. We hope that our students thoroughly enjoyed meeting Luna Roo and that the accompanying activities enhanced their experience of this heartwarming and energetic story. National Simultaneous Storytime remains a powerful reminder that when we read together, we grow together.
Learning through the Library 