Exclusive Preview: Heartfelt Coming-of-Age Graphic Novel

2025 has already seen an impressive lineup of comics, and Oni Press is set to enhance your collection with another must-read. "Hey, Mary!" is a poignant coming-of-age graphic novel that delves into the life of a troubled teen, Mark, as he navigates the complexities of reconciling his Catholic faith with his emerging sexuality. In his journey, Mark seeks guidance from some of history's most iconic religious figures.

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

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, acclaimed for "The Harrowing" and "Bad Dream." Here’s Oni Press's official synopsis of the book:

*Mark is a devout Catholic boy who attends church, prays regularly, and often worries about hell. When he discovers his feelings for another boy at school, he grapples with aligning these emotions with his faith, burdened by centuries of shame and judgment, as well as his fear of his parents' reaction. Seeking advice, Mark turns to his priest and a local drag performer, but he also receives unexpected guidance from pivotal figures in Catholic history and lore, such as Joan of Arc, Michelangelo, St. Sebastian, and Savonarola. Mark ultimately faces the pivotal question: Can he embrace both his Catholic identity and his gay identity?*

Andrew Wheeler shares with IGN, "Hey, Mary! explores the friction between queerness and Catholicism through the lens of Mark's teenage struggles. This tension echoes through centuries of art and expression, and by focusing on one teenager's experience, we hope to make it relatable. In this excerpt, Mark receives an art history lesson from his friend and crush, Luka, alongside a fantastical intervention by a notable queer Catholic icon. It's both entertaining and educational."

Rye Hickman adds, "Kudos to our colorist, Hank Jones, for the vibrant colors on those turtles on the first page! 'Hey, Mary!' is peppered with nods to art history, turning the narrative into a kind of sequential Easter egg hunt. Religious iconography throughout history, a hallmark of the Catholic Church, is evocative, figural, and emotionally charged—sometimes even sexually, which can be challenging to reconcile."

Wheeler further comments, "Incorporating Catholic art references was both fun and rewarding, 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 a chance to discuss the latest developments with the creative team behind Spider-Man & Wolverine.