Exclusive Preview: Heartfelt Coming-of-Age Graphic Novel

2025 has been a stellar year for comics, and Oni Press is ready to add another must-read to your collection. "Hey, Mary!" is a poignant coming-of-age graphic novel that delves into the life of a troubled teen grappling with his Catholic faith and his emerging sexuality. The story follows Mark as he seeks guidance from historical religious figures in his journey toward self-acceptance.

IGN is excited to offer an exclusive preview of "Hey, Mary!" Check out the captivating images in the slideshow gallery below:

Hey, Mary! - Exclusive Graphic Novel Preview

6 Images

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

Mark is a devout Catholic boy who goes to church, says his prayers, and often worries about hell. When he realizes he has feelings for another boy at school, he struggles to reconcile his emotions with his faith, weighed down by centuries of shame and judgment, and the fear of his parents' reaction. Seeking advice from his priest and a local drag performer, Mark also receives unexpected guidance from significant figures in Catholic history and lore, such as Joan of Arc, Michelangelo, St. Sebastian, and Savonarola. Ultimately, Mark must decide if it's possible to be both Catholic and gay.

"'Hey, Mary!' is a narrative that explores the friction between queerness and Catholicism through the lens of Mark's teenage struggles," Wheeler shares with IGN. "For those who are queer and Catholic, these tensions are deeply rooted in history and art. By focusing on Mark's journey, we make these complex themes more accessible. This preview shows Mark receiving an art history lesson from his friend and crush, Luka, alongside a fantastical visit from a notable queer Catholic icon. It's both fun and educational, with a strong point of view!"

"A special thanks to our incredible colorist, Hank Jones, for the vibrant colors on the turtles in the first page of this preview!" Hickman adds. "Throughout 'Hey, Mary!', you'll find nods to art history, much like an engaging sequential Easter egg hunt. This isn't just because I'm a nerd about it, but because religious iconography has had a profound impact through the ages. From The Pietà to lesser-known wood carvings of Jesus, Catholic imagery is evocative, figural, and emotionally charged—sometimes in ways that can be challenging to reconcile."

Wheeler concludes, "Incorporating Catholic art references into the story was a joy, and Rye's execution is phenomenal. These references enhance the visual storytelling, whether you catch them or not."

"Hey, Mary!" is now available in bookstores and comic shops. You can also order the book on Amazon.

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.