Jerry Pournelle "Starswarm" Mass Market Paperback

Vorgrik says: Good condition. 1999.

Kip has never known any life but his existence at the protected laboratory compound known as Starswarm Station. And he has heard the Voice for all that time: an artificial intelligence chip implanted in his skull. It guides and helps protect him from the planet's many dangers, including roaming bands of hostile centaurs and "haters." But the startling discovery of who put the chip in his head - and why - leads Kip to revelations that could threaten the safety of the entire compound.

Luckily, he has friends Marty and Lara to help. But are three kids enough to save an entire planet?