National 

Simultaneous

Storytime

National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) is held annually by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA). Every year a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator, is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and many other places around the country. Now in its 25th 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 that explores age-appropriate themes, and addresses key learning areas of the National Curriculum for Foundation to Year 6.

This Years Title

The Truck Cat is a story about cats and humans, immigration and identity, and homes lost and found. Along with his human, Yacoub, Tinka travels roads wide and narrow, near and distant. But no matter how much they travel, home feels very far away – for both of them. When Tinka and Yacoub are unexpectedly separated, they are determined to find their way back to each other – and, in doing so, might find more than they expected … 

“The Truck Cat is a story that’s all about belonging and connection” says the book’s author Deborah Frenkel “so it’s an absolute thrill that this book will connect so many readers through National Simultaneous Storytime in 2025. I’m enormously honoured on Tinka the cat’s behalf!”

Illustrator Danny Snell also expressed his excitement about the book’s selection. "I’m so excited for everyone involved with the creation of The Truck Cat – to have the opportunity to share it with so many people across the country through National Simultaneous Storytime is very special.”

“I’m thrilled for Deb and Danny, but most of all I’m glad that so many children and families across the country will be introduced to this timely yet timeless story” says Hardie Grant publisher Chren Byng. “The Truck Cat is hugely important to everyone who worked on it, and we’re enormously grateful that ALIA   have lifted it up in this special way.”  

The Truck Cat was selected by an expert panel formed of members of ALIA’s Children’s and Youth Services special interest group, the Australian Coalition for School Libraries, and children’s literacy consultants, all of whom praised the book for its universal themes such as home, loneliness and migration. This   also marks the first year of a new selection process for NSS, with over 80 titles submitted for consideration from publishers Australia-wide.