Hey, Mary!

Gr 8 Up–This short but touching graphic novel follows a queer teen as he learns how to honor all the aspects of his identity, embracing his sexuality and expanding his religious beliefs. Mark Dudyk deeply values the sense of connection and community that his Catholicism provides but worries about what his attraction to his friend Luka means for his beliefs. He searches the scriptures for answers but is torn between the idea of a loving God who accepts him as he is and a God who views his sexuality as a temptation he must overcome. Luka and Jojo, a local drag performer, encourage Mark by sharing their knowledge of queer, religious people throughout history, like Joan of Arc, Hildegard of Bingen, and Sergius and Bacchus. One of Mark’s priests, Father Teo, is also supportive and reassures Mark that he still belongs in the church. Full-color illustrations capture Mark’s emotional journey and bring the many historical figures to life. Lukas, Jojo, and Mark all have different beliefs and relationships to the church, which add depth to the story. Mark is drawn with light skin and blond hair and Lukas has olive skin.