There is a secret history of the world in which an alien virus struck in the aftermath of World War II, endowing a handful of survivors with extraordinary powers. Some were gifted with superhuman mental and physical abilities. Others were cursed with bizarre mental or physical disabilities. Some turned their talents to the service of humanity. Others used their powers for evil. Originally published in 1987, it includes powerful tales by Roger Zelazny, Walter Jon Williams, and George R. R. Martin himself. And this new, expanded edition contains further original tales set at the beginning of the Wild Cards universe.