This review is spoiler free.
“Would you kiss me?”
Series: Heartstopper
Published: 2019, by Hodder Children’s Books.
Pages: 277
Format: Paperback
Genre: Sequential Art, Romance, Graphic Novels, LGBT, Young Adult, Contemporary, Comics, Queer, Fiction
Contains: Strong Language, Anger, Violence, Sexual Assault, Homophobia
‘Heartstopper, Vol. 1’ follows Charlie Spring, a Year 10 at Truham Grammar School for Boys. The past year hasn’t been too great, but at least he’s not getting bullied anymore. Nick Nelson is in Year 11 and on the school rugby team, and has heard a little about Charlie but has never had the opportunity to speak to him. They quickly become friends, and soon Charlie falls hard for Nick, even though he doesn’t think he has a chance. However, love works in surprising ways.
I first read Heartstopper a few years ago, but didn’t have the chance to fully indulge myself into the series. Now, after deciding to restart the collection, I’ve finally devoted myself to the lives of Nick and Charlie. And needless to say, I’m incredibly glad I did.
Charlie makes for a wonderful protagonist, being a total sweetheart from start to finish of this volume. He’s awkward, shy, and yet gradually comes out of his shell the further you delve into the story. His development from start to finish is wonderful to read, rooting for his character and investing yourself in their lives.
Nick is another fascinatingly wonderful protagonist, remaining true to himself throughout the volume which makes him incredibly admirable. He’s scared, confused, and yet continues to chase after his hearts desire throughout the story, regardless of what his peers may think of him.
The writing itself is incredibly, simple and yet it works very well. The illustrations are classic Oseman style and you can’t help but become invested in the story with the help of the artwork. It’s incredible easy to follow, with bonus artwork in the back of the volume explaining more of the characters clothing and background information.
Overall, I deeply enjoyed this volume, enjoying it much more the second time around than the first and I’m incredibly excited to discover where this story leads. Nick and Charlie’s journey is a delight to read.
5/5
A Little Fool Reads 
I’ve been looking forward to hearing about this. I don’t know if it shows my dorkiness, but I would have spent so much time appreciating those Behind the Scenes bits at the back of it to expand on those characters and maybe see what they could have been earlier in development. I’m so happy to see another review from you, thank you for sharing about this! 💜
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