Exactly As I Am: Celebrated Women Share Candid Advice with Today's Girls on What It Takes to Believe in Yourself (Hardcover)

~ (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

With the voices of teenaged girls as well as successful women on issues ranging from body image and sex to self esteem and independent thinking, this book of motivational advice and anecdotes presents quotes and stories from role models notable for confidence, determination and generosity. A co-host of TV's Access Hollywood and a board member of advocacy non-profit Girls Inc., Robinson's concern and respect for teenage girls shine on each page, even if the advice she shepherds for them tends toward the generic. It isn't for lack of trying; a wonderful breadth of women contribute, from Alicia Keys to Nancy Pelosi, and they all have something worthwhile to say, ensuring at least one positive message will connect with girls of varied interests. An encouraging "reality check" with the brevity and range to keep adolescents' attention, this charming work should make a popular gift buy for moms, aunts and grandparents.
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Product Description

Entertainment reporter and author Shaun Robinson has spoken candidly both on camera and behind the scenes with countless celebrities. Consequently, she has received hundreds of emails and letters from girls across the country asking how they can be more like their favorite stars. But the truth is, these actors, singers, athletes, and media and political figures are remarkably similar to teenage girls in essential ways: They all still struggle with issues of self-esteem and body image and doubt, and they all, at some point, have compared themselves with their peers and felt they came up short. In Exactly As I Am, Robinson shares both the honest comments she’s heard from young women and the heartfelt and encouraging advice she’s been in the rare position to glean from today’s most notable women. The result is a book that will inspire girls to find their inner strength, grow confident, and believe in themselves.

Actress Eva Mendes talks about how she persevered in the face of rejection: “Surrounding myself with people who love and support me has been my key to success.” Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Alicia Keys suggests that the answer to a healthy self-image lies in new definitions: “We need more variety in how we depict beauty and define intelligence–there’s so much more than what is often featured.” Kelly Clarkson turns the tables on so-called imperfection: “The flaws and vulnerability are what make people attractive.” And Vanessa Williams suggests a way out of the trap of taking things personally: “Next time someone rolls their eyes at you or says an unkind word about you, think about what they could be insecure about.”

Through this rich tapestry of voices, women of all ages, races, ethnicities, and backgrounds explore how to stay grounded and develop positive self-esteem, something Robinson calls “your ticket to freedom and making your dreams come true.” They also discuss the importance of mentors and friends, being able to laugh at oneself, and giving back to others. The collected wisdom of shared experiences in Exactly As I Am is designed to give every girl and woman the opportunity to dream big, stay strong, and remain true to herself.

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 160 pages
• Publisher: Ballantine Books (March 31, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0345511956
• ISBN-13: 978-0345511959
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.6 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (11 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #53,401 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Sage Advice from Wise Women, April 1, 2009

By	Lissa Coffey, Host of coffeytalk.com "DoshaDiva" (Los Angeles, CA) - See all my reviews

Shaun Robinson writes beautifully, and tells it like it is. With her role as weekend anchor and reporter for Access Hollywood, Shaun has access to some prominent women, women who are role models for teen girls today. She's put this access to good use by including advice and stories that address the tough issues that are of concern to these girls. Self-esteem is so important, and it is wonderful to read examples of how some of our biggest stars have developed it. Shaun also includes her own experiences and advice, along with stories from "real" girls. What comes through loud and clear is that Shaun genuinely cares. This book is a gift - and I bought several copies to give to all the teen girls in my life.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Good Book, April 25, 2009

By	HERBMAN "JON" - See all my reviews

We purchased this book for our almost fourteen year old Granddaughter's birthday present. It is a good source of information to help her build self esteem and confidence.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Not enough books like this, May 15, 2009

By	Veronica Waddell (Lithonia, Georgia USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I got this book strictly as a fan but after actually reading it I was amazed at how much thought and detail was put into the book but was still simple and enjoyable to read. As a woman of color, some material can get intense and actually make you feel worse or hopeless. This book was encouraging, thought provolking, and fun to read.