Trinity Alumnus Discusses New Book

Trinity alumnus Andy Arnold ’00 visited campus to talk about his recently-published novel, “Scandal 52,” on February 25. The story follows Peter, a child with Asperger’s Syndrome, who overhears a conversation that makes him a valuable witness to a crime and puts him in danger.

Arnold shared some of his personal story, as well as his motivation for writing the work of fiction. After college, he spent several years as a paraprofessional in an Elim Christian School classroom, and later as a special education teacher. His own disability, resembling Asperger’s Syndrome, inspired scenes throughout the book.  

Dr. Pete Post ’74, associate professor of special education, led the discussion with Arnold. Arnold read two excerpts from the book and also shared a few tips for interacting with autistic students in the classroom.

Jessica Disselkoen ’16 of Walker, Michigan, said, “Both my experience in the special education program and my time spent teacher-aiding at Elim helped me understand better what Andy talked about.”

The event was sponsored by Trinity’s chapter of the Council of Exceptional Children.