Alabama First Lady Dianne Bentley was among the guests Monday at a book launch event for “More Than a Bird” by Liz Huntley.

Huntley, a local attorney, hosted the event at Clanton Elementary School, which she attended as a child. Dozens of relatives and friends were also present, including former teachers.

“More Than a Bird” was released July 29.

“Scared, abused and taken to the limit of a person’s capacity to endure tragedy, Elizabeth “Liz” Huntley reveals the perils of a childhood that would lead most to a broken life or premature death,” reads the summary on Amazon.com, where the book is available. “Liz, now a successful attorney at a prestigious Southern law firm, recounts her journey from unimaginable darkness to radiance thanks to the early intervention of teachers, a pastor and caring people, strategically placed in her life by God. Decidedly unembellished, inherently poignant, ‘More Than a Bird’ gives a glimpse of horror yet leaves only hope. Through her life story, Liz proves that on the wings of God, there is no height she cannot reach.”

Copies of the book are also available at Boyd’s Place in Clanton, which will also host a book signing from 10 a.m. to noon on Aug. 22.

Jessica Swindle served as mistress of ceremonies and told those in attendance that Huntley wrote a recommendation letter for Swindle to receive a college degree.

The Clanton Elementary School library was full of supporters for the event.

School Principal Rebecca Threlkeld welcomed the crowd and said she was proud of Huntley, a former CES student.

Superintendent of Education Tommy Glasscock said he has been “inspired” by Huntley.

“She’s someone who has made a difference in the lives of so many people,” he said.

Greg DeJarnett, Clanton City Councilman and Alabama Department of Education executive administrator over positive behavior supports, gave an opening prayer.

DeJarnett said his relationship with Huntley “goes back to pre-K,” a program he called “needed and effective.”

Huntley also advocates for pre-kindergarten and will donate a portion of the proceeds from the book to the continued expansion of the program in Alabama.

“Huntley is a committed child advocate and a passionate litigation attorney,” according to the author’s biography. “She practices law at Lightfoot, Franklin & White LLC in Birmingham and regularly serves as a motivational speaker for groups and organizations throughout the country. In addition to her corporate defense litigation practice, a significant portion of her legal focus is spent representing and consulting with governmental and non-profit agencies that serve children and families.

“An inspirational leader, Huntley actively participates in numerous civic and professional organizations. Much of her volunteer time is dedicated to expanding high quality pre-K to all 4-year-olds in Alabama. Huntley also serves on the governor’s Task Force on Prevention of Sexual Abuse in Children.

Following DeJarnett, Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education Secretary Jeana Ross said she met Huntley shortly after starting her time in Montgomery and heard how Huntley believed pre-K changed her life.

Ross said Huntley’s story proves the program’s effectiveness.

“Thank you, Liz, for this amazing story,” Ross said.

Cole Peck, junior editor of the book and student at Washington and Lee University, gave a review of the book.

“The hope she inspired in me and so many others has proven to be the greatest treasure of all,” he said. “I highly recommend this labor of love to anyone and everyone.”

Bentley then spoke about the book and her relationship with Huntley.

“I am in awe of how God has worked in her life,” Bentley said.

Huntley said she was overwhelmed with the display of support at the event.

“I am truly thankful to God, and I give him the credit for all of this,” she said. “You know it’s God when a kid like me can end up in a room like this.”

Huntley also recognized her husband, Tony, and three children.

Huntley signed copies of the book at the conclusion of the program.

Huntley earned her law degree from the University of Alabama School of Law where she now serves as chairwoman of the Farrah Law Society Board of Trustees. She received her undergraduate degree from Auburn University, where she is a member of the Auburn University Board of Trustees.