2 million copies of 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child' script sold in 48 hours

NEW YORK, Aug. 3 (UPI) -- Scholastic says it has sold more than 2 million copies of the Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts One and Two script book during its first two days in release in North America.

The stage play -- and eighth Harry Potter story -- is by the franchise's creator J.K. Rowling, as well as her playwright collaborators John Tiffany and Jack Thorne. The show opened to rave reviews in London last weekend after weeks of well-attended previews.

The drama takes place nearly 20 years after the events of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. It continues the adventures of wizards Harry, Ron and Hermione, who are now adults with families of their own.

"Eager fans of all ages gathered at midnight parties in bookstores and libraries to get their copies of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, bringing communities together to celebrate the magic of reading and the power of great storytelling," Ellie Berger, president of Scholastic Trade, said in a statement Wednesday. "It's an incredible start and all the signs are indicating continued strong sales for this exciting release."

The book went on sale in the United States and Canada at 12:01 a.m. ET on July 31.