Suburban moms, international locales, caped-and-cowled heroes and villains and a couple of autobiographical tales are all part of the mix in this collection of comic books and graphic novels celebrating L.G.B.T.Q.+ champions. Happy Pride!
Hey, Mary!
A teenage boy, Mark Dudyk, is struggling to reconcile his sexual identity with his Christianity. The story is thoughtful and also takes provocative leaps: Mark envisions conversations with saints whose sexuality was erased in interpretations of the Bible. The soldiers and martyrs Sergius and Bacchus, who are drawn here with the chiseled good looks of runway models, present a simple truth: “There have always been queer people, since before we had the language for it.” Written by Andrew Wheeler and drawn by Rye Hickman. (Oni Press. Available now.)
Love Languages
Sarah Huxley and Ping Loh have their meet-cute moment in Paris when Sarah, trying to avoid two aggressive mimes, stumbles on a street and Ping comes to her aid. An unlikely relationship begins — one that has to surmount a language barrier: The women communicate haltingly in English, French and Cantonese. (The word balloons include English translations of what is being spoken.) There is a joyous moment for the women when Sarah finally gets the hang of Cantonese. By James Albon. (Top Shelf. Available Now.)
Motherlover
Imogen Dawson, a married mother of four, and Alex Koenig, who is raising her daughter on her own, meet while at elementary school drop-off, and begin a friendship that blossoms into something more. A philandering husband, sibling rivalry and past experiences complicate the lives of the women, and the relatable situations, measured pace and true-to-the-ear dialogue will have readers cheering for them. The story is also available free as a webcomic. By Lindsay Ishihiro. (Iron Circus Comics. Available now.)
DC Pride 2025
This anthology unites a colorful array of DC heroes and villains for a visit to an old tavern, the center of queer life in Gotham City, before it shuts down. The catalyst for some mysterious events is the original Green Lantern, a hero introduced in 1940, who still carries a torch for his first love, Johnny Ladd. Also included is a nonfiction work by the comic book writer and editor Jenny Blake, drawn by Sara Soler. Blake came out as transgender on social media earlier this year. “No one transitions to hurt anyone,” Jenny writes. “They do it to heal … and become their authentic selves.” (DC. June 4.)
Marvel United: A Pride Special
A mighty assemblage of Marvel champions are featured in this four-story anthology. The most touching vignette spotlights a character who does not wear a costume. It focuses on Arnie Roth, a gay childhood friend of Steve Rogers (Captain America), who first appeared in 1982. The story, by Anthony Oliveira and Pablo Collar, pays tribute to their decades-long friendship and military service. (Marvel Entertainment. June 4.)
It Rhymes With Takei
Thanks to “Star Trek” and his political activism, the actor George Takei is known for taking a stand. But this book, about his decision to come out at the age of 68, in 2005, proves there is more to learn about him. His proclaiming his true self is fueled by a desire to help the fight for gay marriage. The graphic novel flashes back to his childhood and his sense of feeling different and follows his path forward. There are rich details and lively moments, but also some painful memories: like a difficult conversation with his unsupportive brother. Written by George Takei, adapted by Steven Scott and Justin Eisinger, and drawn by Harmony Becker. (Top Shelf. June 10.)
Veronica No. 202
This reprint comic is in honor of the 15th anniversary of the debut of Kevin Keller, an openly gay character. Kevin proved to be the perfect foil for Veronica Lodge, who finally met a man who had no romantic interest in her. He became a regular part of the Archie gang and the live action television soap opera “Riverdale.” Written and penciled by Dan Parent with inks by Rich Koslowski (Archie Comics. June 4.)
Young Men in Love: New Romance
This anthology series has 14 stories with love in the air, whether it is between angels, baristas, superheroes or action figures. A couple of standouts: “Boys Will Be Toys,” written by Joe Corallo and drawn by Chase Bluestone, about a rag doll and a plastic soldier that find each other despite some obstacles, and “Riding the Spark,” by David Booher and Ilias Kyriakis, about a chance meeting on a roller coaster that lasts longer than the ride on its tracks. (A Wave Blue World. June 10.)
George Gene Gustines has been writing about comic books for The Times for more than two decades.
The post 8 Comics to Read This Pride Month appeared first on New York Times.
