Phoenix the Cat and the Unkind Words

Phoenix the Cat and the Unkind Words is a gentle rhyming story about bullying, speaking up and the importance of kindness.

Phoenix loves school, but repeated unkind words from Bram begin to make his ears droop and his bright sparkle fade. At first, Phoenix tries to cope alone. With encouragement from caring friends and help from Owl, he discovers that bullying is never his fault—and that telling a trusted grown-up is a brave and important thing to do.

Through Phoenix’s story, young children can learn to:

• Recognise unkind words and bullying behaviour

• Understand that bullying is never their fault

• Use their voice and speak up

• Tell a trusted adult when something feels wrong

• Support friends who are being treated unkindly

• Appreciate the importance of kindness and inclusion

Warm, reassuring and sensitively written, this story helps parents, carers and educators begin important conversations about bullying and asking for help.

Stop. Walk. Tell. Stay.

Phoenix’s voice matters—and so does every child’s.

Written by Lisa Birkett.

Digital PDF edition. You may download and print one copy for your own personal use.