Exclusive Preview: Heartfelt Coming-of-Age Graphic Novel

2025 has already been a stellar year for comics, and Oni Press is set to enhance your reading list with another compelling release. "Hey, Mary!" is a poignant coming-of-age graphic novel that delves into the life of a troubled teen named Mark, who grapples with his Catholic faith and his emerging sexuality. In his quest for understanding, Mark turns to some of the most iconic figures in religious history for guidance.

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

Hey, Mary! - Exclusive Graphic Novel Preview

6 Images"Hey, Mary!" is crafted by the talented duo of writer Andrew Wheeler, known for "Cat Fight" and "Another Castle," and illustrator Rye Hickman, acclaimed for "The Harrowing" and "Bad Dream." Here’s the official synopsis from Oni Press:

Mark is a devout Catholic boy who attends church, recites his prayers, and often worries about the concept of hell. Upon realizing his attraction to another boy at school, Mark finds himself torn between his feelings and his faith, weighed down by centuries of shame and judgment, and fearful of his parents' reaction. Seeking guidance, Mark turns to his priest and a local drag performer, but he also receives unexpected counsel from notable figures in Catholic history and lore, such as Joan of Arc, Michelangelo, St. Sebastian, and Savonarola. Ultimately, Mark must confront the question: Can he reconcile being both Catholic and gay?

Andrew Wheeler shares with IGN, "Hey, Mary! delves into the complex interplay between queerness and Catholicism through the eyes of Mark, a teenage boy. For those who identify as queer and Catholic, these tensions echo through centuries of art and expression. By focusing on one teenager's journey, we hope to make this narrative more relatable. This excerpt features Mark receiving a contemporary art history lesson from his artsy friend and crush, Luka, and a fantastical visit from a celebrated queer Catholic icon. It's an engaging mix of fun, education, and strong opinions!"

Rye Hickman adds, "A special thanks to our phenomenal colorist, Hank Jones, for the vibrant hues on those turtles in the first page of the preview! 'Hey, Mary!' is filled with art history references, akin to a sequential Easter egg hunt. Religious iconography throughout the ages is a significant aspect of the Catholic Church's influence. From The Pietà to simple wood carvings of Jesus on the cross, Catholic imagery is evocative, figurative, and emotionally intense—sometimes even carrying a sexual charge that can be challenging to reconcile."

Wheeler further notes, "Incorporating Catholic art references into the story was both enjoyable and rewarding, and Rye's execution is truly remarkable! These references enhance the visual storytelling, whether or not the reader is familiar with them."

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