Bellwether
by Connie Willis
A bit elitist at heart (scientists triumph over the adversity of ordinary dumb people!), but still manages to be original, very funny, and interesting. I really liked the bits of fad history at the beginning of each chapter, and the PROCESS OF SCIENCE and the ultimate results of the collaboration are just plain cool. This is a relatively light, quick read that will keep you laughing.
Reread August 2021: Why hasn't this been made into a movie yet tho??