I’m a Dork for Heartstopper

I’ll happily admit it. I love this series so much. The sweetness. The emotions. The representation. I’m so happy about the representation.

My kids found the graphic novels first and devoured them. Repeatedly. I was hesitant to let them watch the show because of the rating, but they were so adamant. So, we sat down together so I could monitor content. We plowed through the first season and kept it on repeat for a few weeks. We have had some of the best conversations. My kids love that I’m just as giddy for the show as they are.

I have also become aware of old wounds that I had learned to ignore. Just before watching this, I had some childhood abuse resurface and I was working through that. Then this series opened up other parts of my youth that I see differently now. It’s helped soften the process. Makes the accepting easier.

My whole life I have always seen people’s sexuality as private, personal. I’ve always seen love as a fluid thing. To hear others express the same feelings about coming out, the same fears and expectations of it all that I have felt is a relief. I never had a coming out moment. I never felt part of any group, letting the world assume I was straight wasn’t intentional.

I feel like this is the first time I’ve seen a bi character that wasn’t some kind of freak. We finally get a normal, sweet, down-to-earth type. I can see much of my own experiences in this show. I love how the group accepts him as bisexual and doesn’t question if he’s sure. I love watching him be able to be himself.

There are a lot of layers that create the beauty of this story and the ability of Alice Oseman to create both the books and tv series is incredible. The actors are amazingly talented and I really appreciate their ability to take this story on. I definitely recommend both in whatever order you prefer. I’m going back through season one before watching season two again. Definitely a comfort show.