Common Sense Media Review
By Mary Krawczyk
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Couple considers next level of romance in popular series.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 7 parent reviews
Based on 17 kid reviews
Kids say this book continues to deliver relatable and meaningful themes, particularly around teen relationships, mental health, and diversity. While some reviews express discomfort regarding the inclusion of a sex scene and cursing, many readers appreciate the representation and the positive messages conveyed throughout the series, emphasizing its suitability for older children and teens.
- representation
- mental health
- teen relationships
- inclusivity
- sex education
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In HEARTSTOPPER: VOLUME 5, Charlie and Nick consider whether they want to go further in their physical relationship. They're unsure given Charlie's recent hospitalization for anorexia and his continued healing. Charlie and his classmates participate in a sex education class, which includes discussion about consent, STIs, safe sex, and contraception. Meanwhile, Nick, who's a year older, visits potential universities with Elle and Tara. As Charlie and Nick consider the growth of their relationship and a possible impending separation, what will they decide about how to move forward together?
Is It Any Good?
The fifth volume continues to offer heartwarming moments between Charlie and Nick, their engaging friends, and their loving families. In Heartstopper: Volume 5, the main emphasis is on Nick and Charlie's decision whether or not to take their physical relationship further. Sex is discussed a lot at school, among friends, and at home. The book deals with these discussions and decisions in a sensitive way. Consent, contraception, and safe sex are clearly highlighted. It's great to see such open conversations about sex. At the same time, the content may be too sexually mature sexual for younger readers who read the earlier and comparatively sex-free volumes. Illustrations imply physical intimacy but are not explicit. Charlie and Nick also seem a bit emotionally dependent on each other at times throughout this series, which is why it's good when they have interesting experiences with people outside of their relationship. With Nick's departure for university on the horizon, readers will look forward with anticipation to the sixth and final volume in the series.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
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Families can talk about sexual activity and consent in Heartstopper: Volume 5. Charlie and Nick communicate openly about taking their relationship to the next level. They're also able to discuss sex pretty openly with their friends. Even Nick's mom mentions safe sex and contraceptives. Why is it important to communicate honestly about sexual activity? What do you know about consent and why it's important in a sexual relationship?
Nick goes on university visits with friends Tara and Elle. How are the girls compassionate and encouraging toward Nick as he considers where he might want to go to university?
Mr. Farouk recommends Charlie for a leadership role at school. A friend invites Charlie to play the drums in their band. He's excited but hesitant about both opportunities. How does Charlie find the courage to try new things? Have you ever been in a similar situation? How did it feel?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Alice Oseman
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship , School ( High School )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Courage
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Graphix
- Publication date : December 19, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 14 - 18
- Number of pages : 336
- Available on : Paperback, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
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