In the midst of life’s unpredictability, it’s often the youngest among us who exhibit an uncanny resilience and capacity for hope. Hoda Kotb, the beloved Today show co-anchor, has experienced this firsthand through her daughter Hope Catherine, whose unwavering spirit and love for life’s simple wonders has inspired Kotb’s latest children’s book, “Hope Is a Rainbow,” set to release on March 5, 2024.
This heartwarming tale springs from personal moments and insights Kotb has garnered from observing her 4-year-old daughter Hope, whom she adopted in 2019. “My daughter Hope is so inspiring to me,” Kotb shared with viewers. “She’s a little child, but with a real kind of old spirit, an old soul. There’s something about her in how she sees magic in everything.”
Indeed, Hope’s name is no accident. “I dreamt about her and I prayed for her and I hoped for her. I could feel her like she was almost palpable before she was there,” Kotb explained during a segment that aired March 5. “The name Hope was a layup. Prayers, wishes and hopes are things that are meant to be. I was like, that’s her name and she’s lived up to that name,” she continued. The name felt destined, as if it was waiting for her, and Hope has certainly lived up to the bright optimism it signifies.
Kotb’s own journey of motherhood and Hope’s recent health scare that saw her hospitalized in the intensive care unit, only reinforced the message of her book. “She has taught me that you’re stronger than you think you are,She has that ability to be optimistic and hopeful no matter what kind of challenges lay before you,” Kotb said, reflecting on the trials of the past year and the lessons learned from her daughter’s resilience.
Chloe Dominique’s playful illustrations bring to life the story’s themes, depicting Hope and her older sister Haley, 6, in pursuit of hope’s many symbols. From the joy of finding a dandelion to the fearless act of learning to ride a bike without training wheels, the book encapsulates a world where anything seems possible, especially when one believes in themselves.
The narrative beautifully articulates the essence of hope, saying, “It’s finding your smile after wearing a frown … and realizing YOU can turn things around. It’s solving a problem and thinking it through. Anything’s possible when you believe in YOU.” These words resonate not just with children but also serve as a poignant reminder to adults about the power of a positive outlook.
Hope’s fascination with rainbows, which began when she was a baby, serves as a metaphor throughout the book. “A rainbow to me represents something that you can’t quite touch, but it’s magical and amazing,” Kotb muses. It’s no wonder then that the very essence of Hope, with her enchanting view of the world, became the cornerstone of the book’s message.
Beyond the colorful illustrations and heartfelt dedication, Kotb’s creation is a testament to the undying hope that anchors her family. Every night, Kotb reaffirms her love and admiration for her daughter, reminding her, “I’m glad you’re mine,” Hoda says, adding:“She’s taught me that dreams come true.”
Relevant articles:
– Hoda Kotb On How Daughter Hope Inspired Children’s Book, TODAY.com, Aug 2, 2023
– Hoda Kotb shares special meaning behind daughter Hope’s name: ‘I prayed for her’, TODAY.com
– Hoda Kotb Shares New Children’s Book Inspired by Daughter Hope Following Her Hospitalization, Entertainment Tonight, Aug 2, 2023