The year 2025 has brought a wave of captivating comics, and Oni Press is adding another gem to the collection. Hey, Mary! is a poignant coming-of-age graphic novel that follows a troubled teen grappling with his Catholic beliefs and emerging sexuality, seeking guidance from some of history’s most iconic religious figures.
IGN is thrilled to share an exclusive first look at Hey, Mary! Explore the preview in the slideshow gallery below:
Hey, Mary! - Exclusive Graphic Novel Preview
6 Images
Hey, Mary! is penned by Andrew Wheeler (Cat Fight, Another Castle) and brought to life by artist Rye Hickman (The Harrowing, Bad Dream). Here’s Oni Press’s official synopsis of the book:
Mark, a devout Catholic teen, attends church, prays diligently, and wrestles with fears of eternal damnation. When he develops feelings for a classmate, Mark struggles to align his emotions with his faith, burdened by centuries of tradition and his parents’ expectations. Seeking counsel from his priest and a local drag performer, Mark also encounters unexpected wisdom from historical Catholic figures like Joan of Arc, Michelangelo, St. Sebastian, and Savonarola. In the end, Mark must confront a profound question: Can he embrace both his faith and his identity?
“Hey, Mary! delves into the complex interplay between queerness and Catholicism through the lens of a teenager named Mark,” Wheeler shares with IGN. “For those navigating both identities, the story reflects centuries of artistic and cultural tension. This preview shows Mark receiving a vibrant art history lesson from his friend and crush, Luka, alongside a surreal encounter with a celebrated queer Catholic figure. It’s engaging, informative, and bold!”
“A huge thanks to our talented colorist, Hank Jones, for the stunning turtle hues in the opening page of this preview!” Hickman adds. “Hey, Mary! is filled with art history references, like a treasure hunt of visual nods. Catholic iconography, from The Pietà to intricate wood carvings of Jesus, carries a profound emotional and sometimes sensual weight, which can be challenging to navigate.”
Wheeler notes, “Incorporating Catholic art references was a joy, and Rye’s illustrations bring them to life beautifully. They’re subtle enough to enhance the story without overwhelming it, adding depth to the visuals.”
Hey, Mary! is out now in bookstores and comic shops. Grab your copy on Amazon.
In other comic news, Mike Mignola is making a return to the Hellboy universe this summer, and we spoke with the creative minds behind Spider-Man & Wolverine.
