"Mary's Exclusive: Heartfelt Coming-of-Age Graphic Novel Preview"

2025 has already brought us some fantastic 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 teenager, Mark, as he grapples with his Catholic faith and emerging sexuality. In his journey of self-discovery, Mark turns to some of history's most iconic 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

6 ImagesHey, Mary! is crafted by writer Andrew Wheeler, known for works like Cat Fight and Another Castle, and illustrated by Rye Hickman, who has worked on The Harrowing and Bad Dream. Here's the official synopsis from Oni Press:

Mark is a devout Catholic boy who attends church, prays regularly, and is constantly preoccupied with the concept of hell. As he discovers his attraction to another boy at school, Mark faces a daunting challenge to reconcile his feelings with his faith, all while wrestling with the heavy burden of centuries of shame and judgment. Fearing his parents' reaction, Mark seeks guidance from his priest and a local drag performer, but also unexpectedly receives counsel from significant figures in Catholic history and lore, such as Joan of Arc, Michelangelo, St. Sebastian, and Savonarola. Ultimately, Mark must navigate the pivotal question: Can he embrace both his Catholic faith and his identity as a gay individual?

Andrew Wheeler shared with IGN, "Hey, Mary! explores the tension between queerness and Catholicism through the eyes of Mark, a teenager struggling with his identity. For those who are both queer and Catholic, this tension is deeply rooted in centuries of art and expression. By focusing on Mark's journey, we hope to make these themes more accessible. This preview features Mark receiving an art history lesson from his artsy friend and crush, Luka, and a fantastical encounter with a queer Catholic icon. It's both fun and educational."

Rye Hickman added, "A special thanks to our colorist, Hank Jones, for the vibrant colors on the turtles in the first page of this preview! Hey, Mary! is filled with art history references, much like an elaborate Easter egg hunt. These nods to religious iconography, which spans the ages, are a testament to the Catholic Church's influence on art. From The Pietà to lesser-known works, Catholic imagery is powerful, evocative, and sometimes carries a sexual undertone that can be challenging to reconcile."

Wheeler further noted, "Incorporating Catholic art references into the narrative was incredibly enjoyable, and Rye's execution is masterful. These references enhance the visual storytelling, even if you're not familiar with the specific works."

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