Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts I & II: Special Rehearsal Edition is a play written by Jack Thorne based on an original new story by J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany, and Jack Thorne. It serves as the eighth story in the Harry Potter series, officially considered canon. The play is set nineteen years after the events of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and centers around Harry Potter, now an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, and his youngest son, Albus Severus Potter, who struggles with the weight of his family's legacy. The story explores themes of family, legacy, the impact of choices, and the complexities of growing up. Albus is sorted into Slytherin, a source of shame for him, and he struggles to live up to the expectations placed upon him, particularly by his father. He befriends Scorpius Malfoy, the son of Draco Malfoy, and together they embark on a dangerous journey to change the past, inadvertently altering the present and creating alternate timelines. The play utilizes time-travel elements, allowing for the revisiting of key moments from the original series, such as the Triwizard Tournament and the Battle of Hogwarts. The narrative delves into the consequences of tampering with time and the ripple effects that even small changes can create. The play's structure is unique, presented in two parts, reflecting its theatrical origins. It offers a fresh perspective on familiar characters and expands the world of Harry Potter, introducing new characters and exploring the challenges faced by the next generation. The themes of the play resonate with a wide audience, touching upon universal experiences of adolescence, parent-child relationships, and the burden of expectations. The target audience includes fans of the Harry Potter series of all ages, as well as theatergoers who enjoy engaging storytelling and immersive experiences. Similar books include the original Harry Potter series, specifically those focused on character development and world-building like Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Other related works would be the Fantastic Beasts series, which expands the magical world and provides context for the events of the Harry Potter books. The play's success lies in its ability to capture the essence of the Harry Potter universe while offering a new chapter in the beloved series. It provides a satisfying continuation of the story, allowing fans to reconnect with the characters they love and experience new adventures in the wizarding world. The play's exploration of family dynamics and the challenges of growing up resonates with readers of all ages, making it a timeless and relevant work.

J.K. Rowling, born Joanne Rowling on July 31, 1965, in Yate, Gloucestershire, England, is a British author, philanthropist, film producer, and screenwriter. She is best known for writing the Harry Potter fantasy series, which has won multiple awards and sold over 500 million copies, becoming the best-selling book series in history. Rowling's writing style is characterized by its accessible language, engaging storytelling, and intricate world-building. She skillfully weaves complex plots with relatable characters, appealing to both children and adults. Her writing often incorporates themes of good versus evil, friendship, love, and the importance of self-discovery. Rowling's significant works include the Harry Potter series (Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows), the Fantastic Beasts film series (screenwriter), and the Cormoran Strike detective novels written under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith. Rowling has received numerous awards and accolades for her work, including the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2001, the Legion d'Honneur in 2009, and the Hans Christian Andersen Award in 2010. She has also been recognized for her philanthropic efforts, supporting various charities and causes. Rowling's writing career has coincided with the late 20th and early 21st centuries, a period marked by significant technological advancements and social changes. Her books have played a role in shaping popular culture and influencing a generation of readers. Rowling's impact extends beyond literature, as the Harry Potter series has been adapted into successful films, theme parks, and merchandise, solidifying her status as one of the most successful and influential authors of all time.