Heartstopper is so much more than I ever expected. Oh my goodness. If you haven't read all 4 volumes, there are probably spoilers so beware!
These books are so well done, and they highlight the feelings of what the characters are feeling so well. I love the graphic novel format because we get to see the little smiles and glances, and it helps tell a huge part of the story. The stolen glances, blushes, sneaky and poorly hidden kisses; to watch them fall in love and go through the excitement, doubt, and fear right with them was a wonderful experience. And the dialogue is just FUNNY! I laughed and cried so much through this. If you haven't read these yet, move them up your list!
Charlie is just a normal, nerdy high school boy, who also happens to be gay. We follow his life from the start of this series and see how wonderful and truly horrible life can be for high school kids, especially those who are "other". His friends are amazing and supportive though, and despite some strain with his parents, his siblings are pretty cool.
The best part about Charlie is that he's so REAL. He's a teenager who struggles with stuff, has been bullied for being outed at school, and while he's comfortable with himself he's still concerned about what other people think. People are cruel. Kids are cruel. They can also be very resilient with the right support structure.
I absolutely loved watching Nick realize what he wad feeling. Nick isn't a nerdy guy like Charlie, hes a "rugby lad" what we see more as a jock. Despite those differences, they built a really great friendship that just organically blossomed into something so much more. It is so, so beautiful how Nick isn't afraid of being there for Charlie and supporting him through anything.
There are some pretty big issues that Charlie has to contend with, and the fact Nick and everyone else around him is so supportive is not the experience many teens have. As a teacher, I've seen a lot of these struggles first hand in my students, and Oseman has created a dream for kids dealing with these really big issues of sexuality, mental health, and eating disorders.
I cannot wait for the next volume of this to release, this story will always have a special place in my heart and the adorable interactions, love, and support will live in my mind rent free.