A review by jstilts
Heartstopper Volume 5 by Alice Oseman

hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted medium-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

3.25

The fifth volume of Hearstopper is another sweet tale that deftly balances the dramatic potential of teenage romance with delivering a wholesome insightful plot that would be a valuable read to anyone facing through similar experiences.

This is again a continuation that manages to stand on it's own (is it all the odd-numbered volumes?) as Charlie and Nick consider taking their relationship to a more intimate level while also facing the prospect of Nick leaving town for University a year before Charlie.

The themes also explore the idea of couples being too dependant on each other, the need to have your own space to develop - and the need to grow up from beneath your parents control while also (somewhat) acknowledging that parents have been through similar experiences and might have valuable insight.

Not quite as good as the best Hearstoppers, but a very worthy addition - and I'm keen for the final volume to be published!
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