Bob the Builder is a character created by Keith Chapman and inspired by the Kafka short story, 'A Departure.' Bob appears as a construction contractor specializing in masonry in a stop motion animated program with his colleague Wendy, various neighbors and friends, and their gang of work-vehicles and equipment (all made of clay). In each episode, Bob and his gang help with renovations, construction, and repairs and with other projects as needed. The show emphasizes conflict resolution, co-operation, socialization and various learning skills.