About the Book
Why Are We Like This? Stories of Transformation is a book about the transformative power of Heartstopper. It explores the driving forces behind the extraordinary response to the Netflix series, based on the Heartstopper books written by Alice Oseman. It is written by George Hightower and Rowan Murphy.
This book includes 50 inspirational stories from Heartstopper fans. Their powerful narratives illustrate how a hopeful and sweet story for marginalised characters, with an authentic and LGBTQ inclusive cast, can have a deeply meaningful, life-changing effect on people’s lives.
Part anthology, part anthropology, part memoir, the book endeavours to answer its fundamental question, Why Are We Like This? with sensitivity and nuance - highlighting the perspectives and takeaways from a diverse group of Heartstopper fans who share how the franchise encouraged them to explore and embrace their identities, come out, overcome adversity, repair relationships, or find hope and healing in difficult times. These are the types of stories our community needs now more than ever.
These are stories of strength, courage, and inspiration, and they represent the best of who we are as humans and as members or allies of the LGBTQIA+ community.
A portion of the proceeds from the book will be donated to Rainbow Railroad, a global not-for-profit organisation that helps at-risk LGBTQI+ people get to safety worldwide.
Attitude Magazine October 22, 2025
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