Exclusive Preview: Heartfelt Coming-of-Age Graphic Novel

2025 has brought us some remarkable comics, and Oni Press is set to enhance your collection with their latest release. "Hey, Mary!" is a poignant coming-of-age graphic novel that delves into the life of a troubled teenager, Mark, as he navigates the complexities of his Catholic faith alongside his emerging sexuality. Seeking guidance, Mark turns to both historical religious figures and contemporary individuals for support in his journey.

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

Hey, Mary! - Exclusive Graphic Novel Preview

6 Images"Hey, Mary!" is crafted by writer Andrew Wheeler, known for "Cat Fight" and "Another Castle," and illustrated by Rye Hickman, celebrated for "The Harrowing" and "Bad Dream." Here's how Oni Press describes the new release:

Mark is a devout Catholic boy who diligently attends church, prays, and often worries about the concept of hell. When he develops feelings for another boy at school, Mark grapples with aligning his emotions with his religious beliefs, burdened by centuries of judgment and his fear of his parents' reactions. Seeking counsel, Mark consults his priest and a local drag performer, while also receiving unexpected advice from iconic figures in Catholic history like Joan of Arc, Michelangelo, St. Sebastian, and Savonarola. Mark's journey leads him to ponder a profound question: Can he embrace both his faith and his sexuality?

Andrew Wheeler shares with IGN, "Hey, Mary! is a narrative that explores the friction between queerness and Catholicism through the lens of teenage angst, embodied by Mark. If you're both queer and Catholic, you're familiar with how these tensions echo through centuries of art and expression. By focusing on Mark's experiences, we aim to make this story relatable. This excerpt features Mark receiving an art history lesson from his artistic friend and crush, Luka, alongside a fantastical encounter with a renowned queer Catholic icon. It's engaging, educational, and packed with perspective!"

Rye Hickman acknowledges, "A huge thank you to Hank Jones, our incredible colorist, for the vibrant hues on those turtles in the first page of the preview! 'Hey, Mary!' is peppered with nods to art history, turning the reading experience into a delightful sequential Easter egg hunt. Religious iconography throughout history is a significant aspect of the Catholic Church's influence. Whether it's The Pietà or an anonymous wood carving of Jesus on the cross, Catholic imagery is powerful, emotive, and sometimes carries a sexual charge that can be challenging to reconcile."

Wheeler adds, "Incorporating Catholic art references into the narrative was a joy, and Rye's execution of these elements is fantastic! The references are subtle, enhancing the visual storytelling whether you catch them or not."

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