Journal clubs have been used to advance students' scientific skills beyond basic knowledge and comprehension, but students often view the traditional format of analyzing reported data and experimental design as laborious and intimidating. As such, the traditional approach can diminish student engagement and enthusiasm for the value of scientific research and literature. In order to overcome this hurdle, we developed a novel journal club format that engages students in discussions of research literature while fostering attitudes of excitement and enthusiasm towards science. The semester begins with a broad discussion of a provocative, mysterious or even controversial central topic. During the course of the semester, students develop a research model about the topic utilizing a wide range of reference materials. Each session consists of developing, evaluating and refining hypotheses, engaging in group discussions, and determining potential directions of investigation. Herein we present (a) the details of this format including an example topic, (b) a discussion of student feedback and (c) observations following the conclusion of the inaugural undergraduate journal club.