Heartstopper Volume 4
by Alice Oseman
Graphix, 2021. 350 pages. Young Adult Comics
Charlie and Nick's relationship has been going really well, and Charlie thinks he's ready to say those three little words: I love you--but Nick's got a lot on his mind, especially the thought of coming out to his dad and the fact that Charlie might have an eating disorder.
Charlie and Nick are back in this the fourth installment of Heartstopper. Now that most of their friends--and the school--know they are dating, Charlie and Nick look forward to just being a normal couple. But there is still pressure on Nick to come out to his dad and Charlie's "eating thing" is getting worse. Will Nick be able to convince Charlie to tell his parents and get some help? Will Nick's older brother "out" them to their dad?
This installment deals a lot with Mental Health Issues. Charlie clearly has anorexia and some other mental health issues and the bulk of the story is about how Charlie and his family plus Nick set out to deal with those issues. It is a tender portrayal of mental health problems and is very clear that though Charlie chooses an inpatient program, that might not work for everyone. As always, Oseman is very positive and supportive in her portrayal of Nick and Charlie's growing relationship. She doesn't shy away from dealing with the discrimination they face and how different family members handle Nick's sexuality; however, she does focus on the sweet parts of first love and on a growing group of friends who are starting to become the people they want to be.
If you liked Heartstopper Volume 4, you might like:
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