Jamela’s back, and she’s bo-o-o-red. It’s the second week of summer vacation, and already she’s run out of things to do. She spends her days moping, annoying her mother and grandmother and waiting to watch Afro-Idols on television. Imagine her surprise and pleasure when one of the contestants, Miss Bambi Chaka Chaka, suddenly shows up at Jamela’s aunt’s beauty salon, where she has been invited to spend the afternoon. Unfortunately Jamela manages to get on the nerves (and in the way) of everyone at the beauty shop, too. Even worse, her pursuit of a pesky fly precipitates an unintended reverse Mohawk for Miss Chaka Chaka. Jamela’s quick thinking and her aunt’s clever fingers save the day, however, and free tickets to the Afro-Idols finals are the icing on the cake. Once again Daly ably paints an engaging picture of contemporary life in South Africa that highlights the globalization of culture. The lengthy text flows smoothly, and the loose, energetic illustrations depict a world that is simultaneously familiar and exotic. Jamela’s back—hooray! (Picture book. 5-8)
