2025 has already seen some remarkable releases in the world of comics, and Oni Press is set to add another gem to your collection with the release of Hey, Mary! This heartfelt coming-of-age graphic novel delves into the life of a troubled teen grappling with his Catholic faith and burgeoning sexuality. As he navigates these challenges, the protagonist turns to some of history's most revered religious figures for guidance and support.
IGN is thrilled to offer an exclusive preview of Hey, Mary! Dive into the slideshow gallery below to catch a glimpse of this captivating story:
Hey, Mary! - Exclusive Graphic Novel Preview
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Hey, Mary! is penned by Andrew Wheeler, known for his work on Cat Fight and Another Castle, and illustrated by Rye Hickman, who has contributed to The Harrowing and Bad Dream. Here is the official synopsis from Oni Press:
Mark is a devout Catholic boy who attends church, recites his prayers, and constantly worries about the concept of hell. When he discovers his attraction to another boy at school, Mark faces a profound internal conflict as he tries to harmonize his feelings with his faith. The weight of centuries of shame and judgment, coupled with his fear of his parents' reaction, bears down on him. Seeking guidance, Mark turns to his priest and a local drag performer, but also receives unexpected counsel from iconic figures in Catholic history and lore, such as Joan of Arc, Michelangelo, St. Sebastian, and Savonarola. Ultimately, Mark must answer the pivotal question: Can he be both Catholic and gay?
"Hey, Mary! explores the friction between queerness and Catholicism through the eyes of a teenage boy named Mark," Wheeler explains to IGN. "For those who are both queer and Catholic, these tensions are deeply rooted in centuries of art and expression. By focusing on Mark's journey, we hope to make these complex issues more relatable. This preview features Mark receiving an unconventional art history lesson from his artistic friend and crush, Luka, as well as a fantastical encounter with a notable queer Catholic icon. It's both entertaining and informative, with a strong point of view!"
"A special thanks to our talented colorist, Hank Jones, for bringing the turtles on the first page of this preview to life!" Hickman shares. "Throughout Hey, Mary!, you'll find nods to art history that add depth to the story. It's not just because I'm passionate about it, but because the Catholic Church's impact on religious iconography is immense. From The Pietà to simple wood carvings of Jesus on the cross, these images are powerful, evocative, and sometimes carry a sexual charge that can be difficult to reconcile."
Wheeler adds, "Incorporating Catholic art references into the narrative was a delight, and Rye's execution is superb. 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 book news, Mike Mignola is set to return to the Hellboy universe this summer, and we've had an engaging conversation with the creative team behind Spider-Man & Wolverine.
