Published in 1987, I expected this to be cheesy and stupid. I was pleasantly and completely surprise to find it an excellent read, with complex plot, well-rounded characters and excellent world-building. This is first-class space fiction novel. I'm eager to read more of the author's work and would recommend this to anyone wanting a quick, excellent read! ( )

First year Jason, an oddly mature boy from the Eridani star system, wasn't even supposed to make it through the space academy testing process. The fact that he's hiding a symbiotic relationship with an odd alien critter isn't going to make him any more popular - especially not with the powers that be. But he may be the only thing that keeps fragile peace negotiations from self-destructing.

An oldie, but still a goodie, even if it is a bit predictable. ( )