From School Library Journal
PreSchool-Grade 2—Unaware that he's actually a "deadly poisonous snake," an orphaned rattler searches for companionship among the desert wildlife, to no avail. Finally, the affable snake is taken home by Pablo, a visually impaired prairie dog who thinks that Danny is a lizard. The truth comes out quickly enough, but not before a friendship—and a musical band—has been formed. The Hoppin' Jalapeños hit the road with Danny playing maracas (his tail, of course) and disguised under a big sombrero. He feels as though he finally fits in. Then one night, he becomes lost in the music, and his hat goes "a-flyin'" as he dances with "fangs a-gleamin' and tail a-rattlin'." His true identity revealed, Danny finds himself alone again, until his prairie dog pals are threatened by coyotes and he saves the day. Jackson's narrative has a Western twang that doesn't always ring true. Filled with dropped g's, numerous "y'all's," and the habit of using "them" instead of "the" ("them birds"), the folksy tone seems a bit put-on. However, the story's theme has universal appeal and the cinematic illustrations, which mix slick realism with cartoon exaggeration, are entertaining and will play well to a crowd. Constant shifts in viewpoint add drama, there's plenty of humor, and Danny's face is appropriately expressive. An adequate addition where friendship tales are needed.—
Joy Fleishhacker, School Library Journal
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
About the Author
Barry E. Jackson works as a designer, director, and writer. His screen credits include films such as The Prince of Egypt, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and The Grinch, and he was one of several production designers for Shrek. Prior to his movie career, Jackson created art for album covers, posters, and magazine editorials. He lives in Studio City, California, with his wife and two children, Rachel and Weston. Danny Diamondback is his first children's picture book.
