Exclusive Preview: Heartfelt Coming-of-Age Graphic Novel Unveiled

2025 has already brought us some exceptional comics, and Oni Press is set to add another must-read to your collection with the release of Hey, Mary! This poignant coming-of-age graphic novel follows a troubled teen, Mark, as he navigates the complexities of his Catholic faith alongside his emerging sexuality. In his journey, Mark turns to some of history's most influential religious figures for guidance.

IGN is thrilled to offer an exclusive preview of Hey, Mary! Dive into the slideshow gallery below to get a sneak peek:

Hey, Mary! - Exclusive Graphic Novel Preview

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Hey, Mary! is crafted by writer Andrew Wheeler, known for his work on Cat Fight and Another Castle, and illustrated by Rye Hickman, acclaimed for The Harrowing and Bad Dream. Here's the official synopsis from Oni Press:

Mark is a good Catholic boy. He goes to church, he says his prayers, and he spends too much time worrying about hell. When Mark realizes he has a crush on another boy in his school, he struggles to reconcile his feelings with his faith as the weight of centuries of shame and judgment—and his fear of his parents' response—presses on his shoulders. Mark seeks advice from his priest, as well as a local drag performer, but also receives unexpected input from key figures in Catholic history and lore, including Joan of Arc, Michelangelo, St. Sebastian, and Savonarola. Ultimately, only Mark can answer the question: Is it possible for him to be both Catholic and gay?

Andrew Wheeler shares with IGN, "Hey, Mary! delves into the friction between queerness and Catholicism, channeled through the adolescent struggles of Mark. For those who are both queer and Catholic, these tensions are deeply rooted in centuries of art and expression. By focusing on one teenager's experience, we aim to make this narrative more relatable. This excerpt features Mark receiving an art history lesson from his friend and crush, Luka, while also encountering a fantastical intervention from a queer Catholic icon. It's an engaging mix of fun, education, and strong opinions!"

Rye Hickman adds, "A big thank you to our colorist, Hank Jones, for the stunning colors on those turtles in the first page of the preview! Hey, Mary! is filled with nods to art history, like a delightful sequential Easter egg hunt. Religious iconography has been a significant aspect of the Catholic Church's influence throughout history. Whether it's The Pietà or an uncredited wood carving of Jesus on the cross, Catholic imagery is powerful, evocative, and sometimes carries a sexual charge that can be challenging to reconcile."

Wheeler further comments, "Incorporating Catholic art references into the story was a joy, and Rye's execution is brilliant. These references enhance the visual storytelling, even if you don't catch them all."

Hey, Mary! is now available in bookstores and comic shops. You can also order it on Amazon.

In other comic news, Mike Mignola is set to return to the Hellboy universe this summer, and we've had insightful discussions with the creative team behind Spider-Man & Wolverine.