Mark Grisham to be guest at Buffalo Island Museum open house

Buffalo Island Museum will host open house at its new location, 207 West Drew Street, at Highway 139 and Highway 18 intersection (the former First National Bank building) from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, May 30, and 1-3 p.m. Sunday, May 31. The building, donated by David and Karen Wallace of Leachville has been renovated to house the Buffalo Island Museum, formerly located in a building at the city park.

Writing duo and friends, David Donaldson (left) and Mark Grisham are authors of "Bedlam South." Grisham will be on hand Sunday, May 31, for the open house of the newly located Buffalo Island Museum in Monette. (photo provided) [Click to enlarge]

Mark Grisham, younger brother of John Grisham, will be a special guest on Sunday signing copies of "Bedlam South," the book he co-authored with David Donaldson. The book was released in October.

Grisham and Donaldson have been best friends since childhood.

Grisham, a history major and Civil War buff, brings realistic dialogue and a gritty writing-style to the novel. Donaldson, a trained clinical counselor, provides much of the pathos for the characters.

"Bedlam South" is a gripping Civil War tale set in an insane asylum outside Richmond, Vir. The Civil War comes alive in a rich tapestry colored with tales of tragedy, romance, and redemption.

Set in the heart of the Confederacy, Bedlam South is the story of ordinary people who fought and suffered, and loved and lost during the war.

Mayor Chub Qualls is excited about the new location for the museum and is pleased to have Grisham be part of the grand opening.

"Mark's great-grandfather, grandfather, father, as well as John and Mark, were all born here in the Monette/Black Oak area," Mayor Qualls said. "We are happy to welcome him home."

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of "Bedlam South" will benefit Impact Missions, which operates the DeSoto Sunrise Home for Girls, a shelter for abused children.

Mayor Qualls and the museum committee invite everyone to stop by and tour the new home of the Buffalo Island Museum on Saturday and Sunday.

Qualls said B&B Restaurant will be open for the Sunday lunch meal on May 31.