Heartstopper: Volume One

Heartstopper is one of the first Western graphic novels to depict a gay relationship among teen boys. How can a graphic novel like Heartstopper help teens accept themselves and feel comfortable coming out, and why is it so important for stories like this to exist?

How do facial expressions and body language serve to characterize Charlie and Nick, as well as advance plot and set the tone for each scene? Why did the author choose to include so little dialogue?

How is Charlie and Nick’s relationship similar to a straight relationship, and how is it different? What are the unique challenges they face? At the same time, what are the universal truths about love that are shown through their bond?

Why is Nick conflicted about having feelings for Charlie, and how does he deal with it?

What is Heartstopper saying about bullying and discrimination and how these issues affect LGBTQ+ people?

How does the bond between Charlie and Nick form, and what are the indicators along the way that Nick is beginning to fall for Charlie?

What do the changing seasons symbolize, and how does the imagery in the graphic novel exhibit those changes?

Charlie’s optimism is his strength. What keeps Charlie optimistic, and what does his optimism say about love and acceptance, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community?