Transcript of Grandson surprises grandma by publishing children’s book she wrote decades ago
NBC NewsFor Barbara Rico and her grandson Chad Cooper, this new year is beyond belief. We're just barely into 2024. You guys have had quite a year already.
This has been insane.
Total insanity. Hello.
I have a gift for you. Okay.
That's because last month, Chad surprised Barbara with a gift more than 50 years in the making and posted her reaction on social media.
Got the present for me. What is it? Here, Moose.
What's in here? In that bag, a children's book based on an unpublished manuscript Barbara wrote way back in 1972. Barbara couldn't believe her eyes.
Oh, my God. This is probably the nicest thing anybody's ever done for me in my entire life. In my entire life. This is the nicest thing.
Can you explain what those tears were?
I couldn't believe that somebody would be that wonderful to me to do it, and he did. I adore him. I love him to death. When you make believe, you can be anything, but the little girl's so poor.
The book called More, More, More is based on an underprivileged little girl Barbara once knew who teaches other kids about gratitude. For decades, Barbara couldn't find a publisher. She'd told Chad all about it, and one day, he spotted her book file on her computer.
I had never published a book before or knew anything about the process or anything, but I learned it pretty quickly, and within two weeks, got it on Amazon.
And now, More, More, More has become a number one best seller. Comments filled with love are now pouring in on mind from across the country. Oh, M-g. Yes, you made it, Grandma. To be seen and acknowledged for what we're passionate about is all anyone ever wants. Even, I'm a kindergarten teacher. This book will now be in my classroom library.
It's coming from their says it's all been a blessing. I feel like I've done something important in my life now, and all I want to do is just give everyone a hug. I mean this from the bottom of my heart.
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Barbara Rieco's grandson gave her a life-changing gift, helping publish the children's book she wrote back in 1972. After a video ...