A review by haileylouise
Heartstopper Volume 4 by Alice Oseman

challenging dark hopeful inspiring reflective
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Throughout this 4th volume, Charlie is writing in his journal around winter time and is reflecting on what’s happened to him since the summer. He covers all of the struggles he’s gone through regarding his mental health, ED, and his growing codependent relationship with Nick. It was incredibly difficult to get through some of the darker parts of the volume, but it felt very vulnerable and eye-opening. As someone who’s gone through the insane wait time of even getting consistent appointments with a psychiatrist and therapist, the time between taking action to get help and that first appointment was the most difficult. And it’s a call out on the mental health care system around the world and how it needs to be improved greatly. On the other side of things, Nick is still trying to come out to his dad on his own terms while dealing with his rude and self-centered brother. 
When Nick’s dad has dinner with his family and Charlie’s, the scene where Nick’s brother is talking to his friend on the phone about how he doesn’t see the big deal about coming out and Tori comes out of the bathroom to kick his phone out of his hand and gives him the death glare is my favorite. More Tori Spring time please!!
Expand filter menu Content Warnings