Reviews with content warning for Acephobia/Arophobia - Heartstopper Volume 5

A continuation on the beloved series, this one is wholesome in developing the internal conflicts of the relationship, and addressing teenage sexuality in a mature manner.

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mitta_girl452's review

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emotional funny hopeful informative lighthearted reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

I recently read this book, and I really enjoyed it. It was a great, healthy depiction of teen relationships and the struggles of when, how and why to have sex, as well as consent and growing up.
Nick and Charlie's relationship is as always, very healthy. The discussions on boundaries, growing apart and relationship changes were done well and showed the characters growth and maturity.
I can't say whether on not this is an accurate and good depiction of the struggles of finishing school and moving on, as I have not experienced that yet. I enjoyed that it implied that it is important to have other strong relationships than just romantic partners.
I love the increasing amounts of showcasing and advocating for safe and consensual sex in modern media. They are incredibly important topics that deserve more attention.
One thing I'm noticing and loving about the HeartStopper series as it continues is Alice Oseman growing and maturing the content of each book with the characters and audience. It was most obvious for me in this book, and I think it's a great thing to be doing with the audience and characters ageing as the books are written and published.
Overall, I think this book was a great continuation in the HeartStopper series that continued the development of the characters beautifully. I'm excited to see what comes next.

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zombiezami's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful medium-paced

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kelly_e's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Title: Heartstopper: Volume Five
Author: Alice Oseman
Series: Heartstopper #5
Genre: Graphic Novel
Rating: 5.00
Pub Date: December 19, 2023

T H R E E • W O R D S

Heartwarming • Wholesome • Soothing

📖 S Y N O P S I S

Nick and Charlie are in love. They’ve finally said those three little words, and Charlie has almost persuaded his mum to let him sleep over at Nick’s house. He wants to take their relationship to the next level... but can he find the confidence he needs? And with Nick going off to university next year, is everything about to change?

💭 T H O U G H T S

Through most of 2023, I was constantly peeping release date calendars for a confirmed publication date for Heartstopper: Volume Five, and it couldn't have been released at a better time. It was exactly the book I needed during a tough holiday season. I don't think there is a fictional couple I love as much as Nick and Charlie.

Volume 5 brought me back to Nick and Charlie's realm and I read it straight through in one sitting, and upon finishing, flipped back to the beginning and began again. It's just that good!

I really noticed a new level of maturity in both Nick and Charlie. In my opinion, this is a true-to-life progression as they age. They are facing real-life teenage problems, and remain so supportive of one another.

Volume Five opens up an important discussion on sex. What I really loved Alice Oseman doesn't paint a Disneyesque picture of sex. Rather she showcases the insecurities and importance of openly communicating ones needs and wants. It talks about relationships in real terms rather than idealistic terms.

Heartstopper: Volume Five is a welcome addition to this beloved series. The graphics continue to be on point and add a layer of emotion without the need for words. I am so glad this series of book exists because everyone can see bits and pieces of themselves in this world. I am definitely not ready for in to end with volume 6, yet I cannot wait to jump into it and feel like I am among friends. Highly recommend to readers of all ages (especially young readers).

📚 R E A D • I F • Y O U • L I K E
• diverse representation
• wholesome characters
• hugs in book form

⚠️ CW: mental illness, panic attacks/disorders, eating disorder, dysphoria, self-harm, chronic illness, bullying, body shaming, homophobia, biphobia, acephobia/arophobia, outing, sexual content, cursing, alcohol, child abuse, physical abuse

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