A review by books_and_fairy_lights
Heartstopper Volume 4 by Alice Oseman

emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.75

My favorite one of the series so far. While it remains all cute and sweet it really digs deeper into mental health issues (and what it means to love someone who is struggling). As always with Alice Oseman it's done masterfully as the issues are very much there and they're introduced and explored/dealt with but they're not made the sole topic + the comic remains hopeful and sweet. The world would be such a better place if people were just like Nick and Charlie's friends - everyone is supportive and trying their best while still having their own struggles and these comics only show and acknowledge that with such benevolence it makes me want to cry happy tears. There isn't a single bit of judgment. Challenges and non-supportive people are present (while hopeful and optimistic the Osemanverse isn't utopian) but they're faced with hope and resilience and nuance and such healthy behaviors I find it really amazing. 
It's definitely one of my favorite series and I can't wait for volume 4.
Also, damn, I really relate with Nick and it feels oddly comforting to read about someone who's quite like I was at that age, being 10years older now.
The different focus on characters and their struggles and just overall lives is also really well done through the series + it's great to see them all evolving and growing.
Especially enjoyed chapter 6 in the form of journal flashbacks (both Nick's and Charlie's), it gave a different perspective and maybe some distance to make things possibly a bit less triggering and I found that really nice, especially as it was really well done.
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