2025 has been a stellar year for comics, and Oni Press is set to captivate readers once again with their latest graphic novel, "Hey, Mary!" This poignant coming-of-age story follows Mark, a troubled teenager navigating the complexities of his Catholic faith and his emerging sexuality. As Mark grapples with these conflicting aspects of his identity, he turns to historical religious figures for guidance, making this an emotionally resonant and thought-provoking read.
IGN is thrilled to offer an exclusive preview of "Hey, Mary!" Dive into the slideshow gallery below to get a glimpse of this compelling narrative:
Hey, Mary! - Exclusive Graphic Novel Preview
6 Images
Crafted by writer Andrew Wheeler (known for "Cat Fight" and "Another Castle") and artist Rye Hickman (of "The Harrowing" and "Bad Dream" fame), "Hey, Mary!" delves deep into Mark's journey. Here's a summary from Oni Press:
Mark is a devout Catholic boy who attends church, prays diligently, and is haunted by thoughts of hell. When he discovers his feelings for another boy at school, Mark faces the challenge of aligning his emotions with his faith, weighed down by centuries of stigma and fear of his parents' reaction. Seeking guidance from his priest and a local drag performer, Mark also receives unexpected counsel from iconic figures in Catholic history, including Joan of Arc, Michelangelo, St. Sebastian, and Savonarola. Mark's journey leads him to ponder a crucial question: Can he embrace both his Catholic faith and his gay identity?
Andrew Wheeler shared with IGN, "'Hey, Mary!' explores the friction between queerness and Catholicism through the eyes of Mark. For those who identify as both queer and Catholic, this tension echoes through centuries of art and expression. By focusing on Mark's teenage experience, we aim to make these themes more relatable. This excerpt features Mark receiving an art history lesson from his friend and crush, Luka, and a surprising visit from a revered queer Catholic icon. It's meant to be engaging, educational, and thought-provoking!"
Rye Hickman added, "A special thanks to our incredible colorist, Hank Jones, for the vibrant colors on the turtles in the first page of this preview! 'Hey, Mary!' is filled with nods to art history, like a sequential Easter egg hunt. The Catholic Church's influence on religious iconography is profound, and whether it's The Pietà or a simple wood carving of Jesus, these images are powerful, evocative, and sometimes carry a sexual charge that can be challenging to reconcile."
Wheeler further commented, "Incorporating Catholic art references was a joy, and Rye's execution is phenomenal. 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.
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