# 1996 Magic: The Gathering Alliances #51b

> The 1996 Alliances expansion with this classic Magic: The Gathering card, Insidious Bookworms. A foundational black creature for vintage gameplay and collection.

Canonical URL: https://supercatch.com/product/magic-the-gathering-alliances-insidious-bookworms-51b

## Identity

- **Year**: 1996
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Alliances
- **Card number**: #51b
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Released in 1996 as part of the Alliances expansion, the Magic: The Gathering card Insidious Bookworms (card number 51b) remains a recognizable piece of the game's early history. This common black creature card features a mana cost of one black mana, making it an accessible option for builders focusing on the black color identity. Crafted by artist Greg Simanson, the card depicts a Worm subtype creature with a power and toughness of 1/1, reflecting its role as a low-cost tactical piece rather than a powerhouse.

The strategic appeal of Insidious Bookworms lies in its ability to generate card disadvantage for opponents upon leaving the battlefield. When destroyed, the card allows the controller to pay one black mana to force a random opponent to discard a card. This mechanic provides a unique form of disruption that fits well into control or midrange strategies within the vintage format. For collectors, this product represents a tangible link to the Alliances era, a time when Magic: The Gathering was rapidly expanding its lore and mechanical complexity. It serves as a valuable addition for those curating a comprehensive set or seeking nostalgic artifacts from the mid-90s trading card game boom.

## FAQ

### What is the mana cost of Insidious Bookworms?

Insidious Bookworms has a mana cost of one black mana, making it a low-cost creature that can be played early in the game.

### How does the ability of Insidious Bookworms work?

When this creature is destroyed, you may pay one black mana to make a target opponent discard a random card from their hand.

### What set is Insidious Bookworms from?

This card was originally printed in the Alliances expansion, which was released in 1996 as part of the Magic: The Gathering trading card game.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.