A review by jstilts
Heartstopper Volume 4 by Alice Oseman

emotional hopeful inspiring slow-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

2.75

Another essential volume of Heart stopper, it's nevertheless not quite as good as the first and third volumes which stood on their own really well. We further explore Nick coming out to his family, Charlie's mental health journey and milestones in their relationship both large and small.

Charting Charlie's mental health is particularly well done - it strikes a fine balance between not sugar-coating the issues yet neither does it mine them for grim drama. It's a smacks a little of a "public information announcement" but frankly if you know someone who needs help but isn't seeking help, putting this sort of wholesome and fact-based examination of a journey towards recovery into their hands would be a good move.

Again this book ends well enough that it would be a satisfying ending to the series - and for once I don't really know what's likely to be covered in the already announced Volume 5. I plan to find out!
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