Exclusive Preview: Heartfelt Coming-of-Age Graphic Novel

2025 has already brought us a plethora of exceptional comics, and Oni Press is set to add another gem to your collection with the release of "Hey, Mary!" This poignant coming-of-age graphic novel delves into the life of a troubled teen named Mark, who grapples with his Catholic faith and his emerging sexuality. Seeking guidance, Mark turns to some of history's most iconic religious figures to navigate his internal conflict.

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

Hey, Mary! - Exclusive Graphic Novel Preview

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"Hey, Mary!" is crafted by writer Andrew Wheeler, known for his works like "Cat Fight" and "Another Castle," and illustrated by Rye Hickman, acclaimed for "The Harrowing" and "Bad Dream." Here's a glimpse into the narrative from Oni Press:

Mark is a devout Catholic boy. He attends church, recites his prayers, and often worries about the concept of hell. Upon realizing his feelings for another boy at school, Mark struggles to align his emotions with his faith, feeling the weight of centuries of judgment and his fear of his parents' reaction. Seeking guidance, Mark confers with his priest and a local drag performer, and unexpectedly receives insights from significant figures in Catholic history such as Joan of Arc, Michelangelo, St. Sebastian, and Savonarola. The central question Mark faces is whether it's possible for him to embrace both his Catholicism and his homosexuality.

Andrew Wheeler shares with IGN, "Hey, Mary! explores the tensions between queerness and Catholicism through the lens of teen angst experienced by Mark. For those who are queer and Catholic, these tensions are echoed through centuries of art and expression. By focusing on one teenager's journey, we aim to make these complex issues more relatable. This excerpt features Mark receiving a secular art history lesson from his artsy friend and crush, Luka, alongside a fantastical intervention by a notable queer Catholic icon. It's both fun, educational, and opinionated!"

Rye Hickman adds, "I want to give a shoutout to Hank Jones, our incredible colorist, for the vibrant colors on those turtles on the first page of this preview! 'Hey, Mary!' is filled with art history references, akin to a sequential Easter egg hunt. Religious iconography, a major influence of the Catholic Church, is rich with evocative, emotionally charged imagery that can sometimes be difficult to reconcile with its sexual undertones."

Wheeler concludes, "Incorporating Catholic art references into the narrative was a delight, and Rye's execution is phenomenal. These references enhance the visual storytelling, even if you're not familiar with them."

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

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