19 May 2010

Countdown begins to Australia's biggest storytelling event

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National Simultaneous Storytime, Australia's biggest single storytelling session, reaching more than 120,000 children nationwide, takes place at 11am on Wednesday 26 May, 2010.

The annual event is organised by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) and the book chosen for this year is Little White Dogs Can't Jump, by Bruce Whatley and Rosie Smith, published by HarperCollins Publishers.

Bruce Whatley was also the illustrator of last year's National Simultaneous Storytime storybook, which prompted events at 960 locations around Australia, involving politicians, writers, poets, singers and local celebrities.

ALIA Executive Director Sue Hutley explained, "National Simultaneous Storytime was a big hit when it was first held during Library and Information Week in 2001. Since then it has grown and grown. The majority of places taking part are libraries, but every year we get more kindergartens, schools, childcare centres and bookshops. This year, we have set a target of 1000 or more National Simultaneous Storytime gatherings."

The Copyright Agency Ltd (CAL) supports National Simultaneous Storytime through its Cultural Fund. Chief Executive Officer, Jim Alexander said, "An event like National Simultaneous Storytime is where books can first capture children's hearts and minds. This is a fantastic opportunity to introduce Australia's children to reading, and what we hope will become a life-long love of literature."

Bruce Whatley and Rosie Smith commented, "One of the best things about creating children's books is the thought of making kids smile and if possible laugh out loud. The thought of thousands of kids reading our book at the same moment and simultaneously laughing out loud is very cool!"

Bruce Whatley and Rosie Smith will be attending the Kiama Public Library Storytime session.

Participating organisations are listed on the ALIA website at www.alia.org.au/storytime.