By BOB COTTON
The mother of murdered Ashburton teenager Kirsty Bentley will tell her story of the nightmare her family went through in book to be released on Monday.
"Kirsty: Her Mother Writes With Love" is written by Jill Bentley with author Tony Williams and tells the story of her 15 year old daughter's life and death, the police investigation into her murder and the terrible aftermath experienced by her family.
Katrina Power, spokesperson for publishers Reed Publishing, said "Kirsty" was a moving book that went to the heart of every parent's worst nightmare.
Kirsty Bentley went missing on New Years Eve 1998. The next day her dog was found tied to a tree beside the Ashburton River.
Her body was found in an isolated clearing 40 km from her home two weeks later.
Police have yet to make an arrest in connection with her murder.
"When she was gone, not just those who knew her, but a whole nation felt the pain of her passing," said Ms Power.
"'Kirsty' reveals details of Kirsty Bentley's life and celebrates the vibrant, compassionate young woman she was.
"Following the publicity surrounding Kirsty's death ... Jill Bentley has experienced a bizarre and reluctant celebrity which she describes as being 'world famous in my own supermarket'."
She said Jill Bentley was a courageous woman who had been an eloquent spokesperson for victim's rights.
Police this afternoon said they would not be making any comment on the book.
Inquiry head Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Williams said that the book by Jill Bentley was her initiative.
"The inquiry into the death of Kirsty Bentley is still open."
Police said earlier this year that they would be making no further comment unless some new evidence came to light.
- CHRISTCHURCH STAR
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.
Latest from New Zealand
Speed limits to be lowered around 21 Tauranga schools
The 40km/h limits will apply around pick-up and drop-off times.