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Heartstopper: Volume One

Fiction | Graphic Novel/Book | YA | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Alice Oseman

Heartstopper: Volume One

Fiction | Graphic Novel/Book | YA | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

278

Format

Graphic Novel/Book • Fiction

Setting

England • 2010s

Publication Year

2018

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

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Super Short Summary

Heartstopper: Volume One by Alice Oseman follows Charlie, a shy boy who becomes friends with Nick, a friendly rugby player, after they are seated together in a new registration class. Charlie, who has faced bullying for being gay, develops a crush on Nick, initially believing him to be straight. Their friendship deepens, leading to moments of connection and confusion as they navigate their feelings for each other.

Heartwarming

Romantic

Emotional

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.6

799,152 ratings

89%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Alice Oseman's Heartstopper: Volume One has been widely praised for its charming and heartfelt representation of LGBTQ+ youth. Reviewers commend its relatable characters and engaging illustrations. Some critique the plot for being predictable but agree that its emotional depth compensates for simplicity. A touching and meaningful read for diverse audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Heartstopper: Volume One?

Fans of LGBTQ+ teen romance and coming-of-age stories, especially readers of Becky Albertalli's Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda and Rainbow Rowell's Carry On, will enjoy Heartstopper: Volume One by Alice Oseman. It blends heartfelt friendships, charming illustrations, and an exploration of identity and love.

4.6

799,152 ratings

89%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Charlie Spring

Charlie is the story's protagonist, a year 10 student at Truham Grammar School for Boys, who is openly gay and also a drummer. He struggles with shyness and insecurity at school but finds himself gaining popularity after facing bullying.

Nick, the deuteragonist, is a friendly and open-minded year 11 student at Truham who plays on the rugby team. He becomes friends with Charlie and is supportive and kind-hearted.

Ben is the boy Charlie is initially involved with at school. He is not openly gay and tries to keep his relationship with Charlie a secret, often acting controlling and aggressive.

Tao is Charlie’s skeptical and judgmental friend at school. He is protective and often voices doubts about Charlie’s new friendships.

Tara is a girl from a nearby all-girls school, known for a past dance with Nick. She becomes an unexpected source of support for Nick.

Tori is Charlie’s older sister, who is protective and understanding of him. She is quietly supportive and comforting to Charlie.

Book Details
Pages

278

Format

Graphic Novel/Book • Fiction

Setting

England • 2010s

Publication Year

2018

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

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