A review by vintovka
Heartstopper Volume 4 by Alice Oseman

funny hopeful lighthearted reflective relaxing slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? N/A
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
Okay, so this overhyped thing.

I have nothing against the escapism genre, especially when it's done by and for fellow queers, but I noticed that in these cases specifically it takes a special approach to conflict. The educational "this is how you should correctly deal with this problem" approach. I feel it's kind of bad for the story. It kind of stops feeling real when everything is done this way. 

I personally couldn't relate to the ed plotline for that reason, I disliked the way it was done immensely. When you have your own shitty ed story and know so many others', it becomes hard to believe in this picture-perfect representation of inpatient and recovery.


The art style is very cute and charming, which hides its flaws and simplicity very well. The characters are loveable, and reminded me of my own high school romance. 

I'm not going to rate the story, since it's just not my genre, so I feel that would be unfair and useless. It is a nice read if you need to kill a few hours. I'm glad we as a community are getting more and more representation every day, of any kind.