As scientists work to unravel humanity's blueprints, the potential benefits of genetic engineering become clearer. But our path is dotted with the familiar pitfalls of new technology. Such an intimate knowledge of human mechanics could lead to magnificent breakthrough in medicine—or smash our romantic notions of what it means to be human. We might solve the riddle of cancer—but we might also create a world where genetic perfection robs us of the uncertainty that makes life compelling. We may look in the mirror and find beauty—or horror...

In this thought-provoking anthology, eleven cutting-edge science fiction writers explore both the promise and peril of genetic engineering.

Contents:

• The Invisible Country by Paul J. McAuley
• The Kindly Isle by Frederik Pohl
• Chaff by Greg Egan
• Stable Strategies for Middle Management by Eileen Gunn
• Good With Rice by John Brunner
• Sunken Gardens by Bruce Sterling
• The Other Shore by J. R. Dunn
• Written in Blood by Chris Lawson
• The Pipes of Pan by Brian Stableford
• Whiptail by Robert Reed
• A Planet Named Shayol by Cordwainer Smith