** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE ** 

 Copy received through Netgalley 

 ~ 

 Hey, Mary, by Andrew Wheeler 

★★★★☆ 

 128 Pages 

 Hey, Mary is an intriguing graphic novel that explores the challenge of how to be gay and Catholic at the same time. 

 Mark is struggling. His best friend, Luka, has come out as gay at their Catholic school and to his parents, putting a strain on their relationship. Mark is confused about the church's teaching about being gay and that applies to his friend, but also confused about his own feelings – not just towards Luka in general, but the fearful thought that he's also gay! 

 Mark has always prayed and found an affinity for the Virgin Mary, but after a fight with Luka during a school trip to an art gallery, historical figures from the paintings start coming to life to talk to him. All of the historical figures are two things: queer and Catholic! They talk Mark through the teachings of the bible, the expansive queer history of famous Christian figures and even explore real world issues that Mark encounters throughout his days. 

 Mark confides in friends, a priest, and eventually speaks to his family. This way, we see how each part of his life differs from the others; unfailingly supportive friends, a wise and kind priest, well-meaning but conservative parents who don't understand. 

 The story is sweet but hard hitting in places. It could be a great resource for questioning kids or parents of teens who are struggling with coming out, giving them a look at the many connections between gay Christian history and modern living, which often counters the original teachings. 

 However...it could be too dark and depressing for some younger kids. I'd definitely say there are heavy chunks of sadness, fear and anxiety in Mark's story and it can feel a bit oppressing, which could be triggering for some kids. I also feel like it's very heavy handed with the pro-religion aspect, and gets quite preachy at points. There are counter points to nearly every argument, but for someone who is deeply religious it definitely sways towards using historical stories and teachings to overrule or discount modern teachings. I'm not religious at all, but that's definitely how it felt to me, and I wonder if someone who is as devout as Mark would feel differently. 

 Overall, I'd say this is a great resource for religious but questioning queer kids, with some supportive adult guidance, to talk through the stories, teachings and messages contained within. The ending is also very happy and easily resolved, which doesn't feel realistic, so that may also give a rose-tinted view to readers who don't know any better.