The Fourteenth Goldfish, by Jennifer L. Holm

Being a teenager isn't easy; especially not the second time around. Ellie's Grandpa, Melvin, is doing just that; after discovering a concoction for the fountain of youth, he has been transformed into a 13-year-old. In addition to combatting acne, homework, and girls, Melvin must find a way back into the lab to get the materials he needs to complete his research. Ellie is reeled into being his partner in crime. Along the way, she comes to know her Grandpa much better and comes to appreciate his scientific mind, that her mother loathes. In fact, she now thinks she may have a future in science as well.

A good deal of comedy arises with Melvin maintaining the mindset of an older man, but in the body of a teenager. This is balanced by Ellie's thoughts and discussions with her Grandpa concerning the true consequences of immortality. These are the kind of queries that could lead to great class discussions.

Holm's quick-witted conversations and seamless interjection of scientific information within the plot, solidify her as the great writer that she is.

Phobiapedia: All Things We Fear the Most!, by Joel Levy

When or where a fear began can sometimes be pinpointed to a specific event or thing, while others seem like they are as much a part of us as the color of our skin. Though, the source of a fear may vary, what is certain is that fear is a very real thing and can be crippling to some. Phobiapedia: All Things We Fear the Most, by Joel Levy, gives us a closer look at the various types of phobias.

You can quickly find the phobia of your desire by way of the Contents or Quick Guide at the beginning or the Index at the back of the book. However, if you're more in the mood for browsing this is a great book to flip through with large colored pictures accompanies by twisting font and easy to follow definitions. I was surprised to find how many fears have been officially identified as phobias, like Autophobia: fear of being alone or Nyctophobia: fear of the dark.