Book Review: Heartstopper Volume 1

By Alice Oseman 

5 Stars 

Heartstopper, by Alice Oseman, was the first graphic novel I have ever read. Previously, I had the idea that graphic novels were like comics, and merely consisted of superheroes, or short and little stories like those told in the Archie comics (which I also love). However, Heartstopper changed my mind.   

Heartstopper follows Nick and Charlie, where they meet at school and slowly begin to fall in love. This graphic novel is a heart-warming LGBTQ+ young adult graphic novel. We meet Nick and Charlie while they are still in high school and learn about themselves as they learn about each other and develop a relationship. I loved getting to know Nick and Charlie throughout this story. While graphic novels are shorter, I still felt as if I was able to learn about Nick and Charlie the same way you learn about the main characters in a chapter novel. Despite their characters and story primarily being depicted by pictures, alongside little blurbs of conversation or thought, their characters remain alive and understood in a complex way. Their struggles are relatable to their intended audience and tell an important message relating to relationships and identity.   

I would strongly recommend Heartstopper to anyone looking for a light and fluffy romance that simultaneously harbours deep and complex characters and meanings. Nick and Charlie have held a piece of my heart for so long, and I would love to share that with anyone else who is interested.   

The best part? It is a series that has been adapted into a TV show. Heartstopper is also written alongside short stories or novels about different characters throughout the story, so there is plenty of Heartstopper to be experienced. I would read Heartstopper again and again, truly. 

Reviewed by Erika 

View in Library Catalogue: Print