'Survivor' star Amber offers advice to girls

The reality-TV star is serious about being a role model.
vindicator staff report
"Survivor: All-Stars" winner Amber Mariano gives tips on surviving the teenage years in her new book, "Amber's Guide for Girls -- Advice on Fame, Family, Fashion and More."
Mariano is a native of Beaver, Pa., and a graduate of Westminster College in New Wilmington, Pa. She was known as Amber Brkich when she was on the popular television show.
Mariano said she wrote the book because she takes seriously the responsibility of being a role model.
In "Amber's Guide," she gives a glimpse into her own life and offers advice on important subjects such as school, relationships and more. The book aims to inspire girls to be strong, confident and proud of who they are.
"I was inspired to write this book because over the past five years, I've received hundreds of letters from young girls," said Mariano. "The letters include not only questions about my experiences on 'Survivor' and 'The Amazing Race,' but also questions about my experiences growing up and how to handle what life deals you."
Among the topics she covers are developing self-esteem, getting along with parents and siblings, dressing trendy while still dressing your age, setting goals and staying true to your values.
About Amber Mariano
After graduating from Westminster, Mariano participated in "Survivor: Australian Outback" in 2001, where she lasted 33 days before being voted off of the show with nine days remaining.
She also competed in the first installment of "Survivor All-Stars," which pitted former "Survivor" contestants against each other for a million dollar prize. After 39 grueling days and nights in the jungles of Panama, Mariano was crowned the winner.
It was also on this show where she first met her future husband, Rob Mariano, a k a "Boston Rob." The two became engaged in front of millions of viewers during the final show of "Survivor All-Stars," and were later married on television in the two-hour CBS special, "Rob and Amber's Wedding."
Before they were married, Amber and Rob competed on CBS's other hit reality show, "The Amazing Race," where they finished second.
They live in Pensacola, Fla.
XFor more information about Amber and her book, visit www.amber-brkich.com or www.ambersadvice.com.