KIDS’ BOOK OF THE WEEK

HEARTSTOPPER VOLUME FOUR

by Alice Oseman, Hachette Children’s Group, paperback £10.99 (ebook £7.49) ★★★★✩ Heartstopper is the continuation of a teenage love story: Charlie is gay, and his partner Nick is bisexual and recently came out to his family and friends.

Unlike the previous books in the series, this is less about coming to terms with sexuality and identity, and deals more with mental health and eating disorders.

The graphic novel style keeps the pace fast and gives you a window into the characters’ emotions, dealing with mental health from the perspectives of both the sufferer and their loved ones.

Alice Oseman makes sure to give all kinds of information that teenagers reading might find helpful – particularly if they’re experiencing similar issues.

At some points it feels more educational than plot-driven, but nonetheless, it’s a touching tale of teen love and accepting who you are, while also giving a raw perspective on the struggles around mental wellbeing.