3In the year 2036, advances in genetic engineering have made it possible to create personalized pets genetically designed and linked to their owners. These "Gen Pets" are still a toy for the elite, including young Nat Kanan's dad, who is the new owner of the New York Knicks. But he might have another reason to buy little Nat such an extravagant pet: protection. It soon becomes clear that Gen Pet 'Niko' was designed to be Nat's ultimate bodyguard, with talents that attract the attention of the local mafia boss who has other ideas about how to put those skills to use... A wild sci-fi adventure for Middle Grade readers.