A City Possessed

Overview

A City Possessed is the harrowing account of one of New Zealand's most high-profile criminal cases–a story of child sexual abuse allegations, gender politics and the law. In detailing the events that led up to and surrounded the allegations made against several staff of the Christchurch Civic Cre`che, author Lynley Hood shows how and why such a case could happen. Her penetrating analysis of the social and legal processes by which the conviction of Peter Ellis was obtained, and repeatedly upheld, raises major issues for our justice system and the way we see ourselves. Peter Ellis served seven years of a 10-year jail sentence for abusing seven children at the Christchurch Civic Cre`che. He has always maintained his innocence, and has gained widespread support for what many see as a miscarriage of justice. This paperback edition comes at a time when Peter Ellis and the Christchurch Civic Cre`che case have returned to public attention.

Reviews

Hood makes her points clinically and with the authority of an historian who has left no source unturned ... A City Possessed is remarkable and notable work. It is full of erudition and sarky wit and is in a style that can strip paint. – Mike Behrens QC, Manawatu Standard This is an important book – clearly written, well-researched, assiduously referenced, and a compelling read. – Dr Alison Jones, Institute for Research on Gender, University of Auckland

Author Biography

Award-winning author Lynley Hood's previous books include Sylvia! The Biography of Sylvia Ashton-Warner and Minnie Dean: Her life and crimes.