By Eisner Award-winning writer Andrew Wheeler makes his return in April with a new Young Adult graphic novel illustrated by Rye Hickman. Hello, Mary! tells a LGBTQ+ narrative about self-acceptance and the often challenging clash between faith and sexuality.
Hello, Mary! centers around a young Catholic boy named Mark, who, upon discovering he has feelings for another boy at school, struggles to align his emotions with his religious upbringing. Mark seeks counsel from his priest and a local drag performer, as well as several surprising historical figures, including Joan of Arc and Michelangelo.
Check out a unique preview of the upcoming book in the gallery below.
Wheeler also kindly provided Newsarama with the following thoughtful reflection on the story:
“Growing up queer in a religious family can sometimes be an incredibly isolating experience, leaving you detached from your loved ones, your community, and possibly your entire future. Hello, Mary! recounts the journey of a teen, Mark, as he comes to terms with his sexuality and tries to understand how it intersects with his faith.
We are not truly alone on this journey – others have walked this path before us. In this chapter, Mark engages in a conversation with Jojo, a warm-hearted drag performer who has their own complex relationship with Catholicism and a deep knowledge of scripture that is not uncommon among those healing from their past experiences with the church!
Jojo is one of three characters who guide Mark throughout his journey, and we see Jojo in various forms throughout the narrative; but in this introductory section, we meet ‘authentic Jojo,’ and Rye captures their style and confidence beautifully. I love the flow of the kaftan, the elegance of the heels! Jojo is exactly who they aspire to be!
A lot of Jojo’s dialogue in this chapter draws from my personal experiences. My Catholicism is an integral part of my identity, but I also understand that I will never fit into the idea of being ‘Catholic enough’ for some individuals. I believe this is a common sentiment, and it can be very isolating. In many ways, Jojo embodies the hope for survival. Their lighthearted remark when they say, ‘I am an abomination’ illustrates that Jojo understands other people’s words do not define them.
Jojo is unaware of Mark’s personal struggles in this chapter, meaning that Mark hears the things he needs to hear, although not necessarily when he’s prepared to embrace them. In the concluding page of the chapter, Rye expertly captures Mark’s silent anxiety as the weight of Sodom and Gomorrah descends upon him. It’s in these moments that we need to feel reassured that we are not alone, and my hope is that Hello, Mary! can become that empathetic companion for anyone who needs it.”
Artist Rye Hickman shared, “I love Jojo’s storytelling in this scene. The contemporary elements bring both irreverence and significance in a way that makes a very ancient narrative feel relevant. Not that the story of Sodom and Gomorrah is necessarily relatable, but Jojo possesses a magical touch! They contribute a significant amount of biblical storytelling in Hello, Mary! as they guide Mark through different aspects of his journey, and their scenes are among my favorites. I hope readers enjoy them as well.”
Hello, Mary! will be released by Oni Press on April 15.
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