Kesgrave: Married teaching duo publish footballing sloth story

Rob Parker, 47, is a year four teacher at Cedarwood Primary and the author of Stink the Sloth. The book tells the story of the titular character Stink, a scruffy but kindly Sloth who longs to make some friends 

The idea came about almost seven years ago from telling bedtime stories to his sons. 

“It combined two things they particularly liked at the time, football and sloths,” explained Mr Parker. 

“It was the idea of a sloth being lonely and in need of a friend, and trying to involve all the other animals in the rainforest.  

“There is a common thread of Stink trying to find some people to play football with, and being able to see the positive traits and skills they might have. 

“It brings everything together with a feel-good ending of friendship and camaraderie.” 

Mr Parker said that once his wife, Lucy Hawkley, came on board his project, he was able to publish the book. (Image: Rob Parker)

His two sons, Albie and Teddy, loved the story, and so too did Mr Parker’s classes over the years. 

However, for years he struggled to get the story published – until two years ago when he had the brainwave of teaming up with an artist who knew the story almost as well as he did – his wife Lucy.

“We sat there one night, and thought, what if Lucy tried to illustrate it?” said Mr Parker. 

His wife, Lucy Hawkley, is an art teacher at Woodbridge school and with her keen artistic eye, the story of Stink was given new hope. 

Stink is a footballing sloth, desperate to make friends. Credit: Lucy Hawkley (Image: Lucy Hawkley)

Mr Parker said that Stink is a kindly sloth, and that the story is one of friendship and camaraderie. Credit: Lucy Hawkley (Image: Lucy Hawkley)

"It’s become a joint project,” said Mr Parker. “She has been great at refining things. 

“I’d try to sketch a few things out about how I would like to see it. She’d tell me when there were things that possibly wouldn’t work so well, and what would. 

“I'm very fortunate to have worked with her.” 

For two years, the husband-and-wife duo worked together during the school holidays, and gradually, Stink came to life. 

The book can now be bought online. 

Mr Parker said that he has enjoyed working with his wife. However, as to whether Stink will return for a sequel, we will have to wait to find out. 

To purchase Stink the Sloth, visit: www.stinkthesloth.co.uk