Have you ever felt like being a man meant you had to armor up, hide parts of your authentic self, or pretend to be someone that was not you?
I’m Matthew Sloane—author, illustrator, and someone deeply committed to helping men explore their inner lives with courage and self-compassion.
Autobiographical
This book is my story: from a quiet, removed introvert to a participant and leader in men’s groups. From guarding myself around other men to discovering the joy and power of listening, sharing, and connecting without judgment.
Graphic Novel
Hiding Inside a Man is a visual narrative and illustrated memoir that uses exquisite, original illustrations in a graphic novel-style to invite men—and anyone interested in understanding men (allies to men)—to explore the inner world of masculinity and men's mental health through the lens of self-compassion.
With 48 illustrations and 140 pages of story, it conveys as much through images as words. The experience is intentionally designed to be a bespoke, physical object to be held, engaged with, and integrated into a personal, contemplative practice.
Why it matters
Our culture often defines manhood in one-dimensional ways—muscles, money, and babes. But there's more. There's real connection, compassion, and being driven by our hearts. Stories like this one help us evolve those cultural scripts.
This journey of self-compassion is not just personal. The insight you acquire naturally enhances your key connections—in your intimate life, among family members, and with your colleagues at work. For the professional father and leader, engaging with your process of "hiding" offers a vital new form of leadership based on radical self-acceptance, fostering true work-life integrity and emotional capacity for your entire team or family.
For group exploration
The book includes a 23-page appendix with reflective questions and group facilitation guides—perfect for men’s groups, book clubs, or courses on men and masculinities. These exercises are designed to help men reflect on themselves, their relationships, and how they show up in the wider world.
Watch the brief trailer (2:37) to explore the story, the drawings, and the heart of the book…
Praise from men’s work specialists
“Matthew courageously shares his personal journey of emotional isolation and his quest to build meaningful connections with men… I highly recommend this book for boys and men.”
— Daniel Ellenberg, PhD
“…It’s the book I wish I had been able to read to my children and grandchildren… for every woman who has hungered for a man to be this vulnerable and honest.”
— Jed Diamond, PhD
"Matt’s deeply personal book… With this gift of guidance they may just find the soul poetry of worthy masculinity."
— Bill Kauth
"It takes much more courage to be unafraid of anything within me. Matthew Sloane models that kind of manhood—the kind that is sensitive to everything, and strong enough to hold all of it.”
— Dr. Kelly Flanagan
Support the Human Behind the Art
When you purchase directly from this website, you do more than buy a book:
- You directly support me, the artist, ensuring a higher portion of the sale goes toward future work.
- You cast a direct vote to “keep going.” Your purchase signals motivation for me, the artist, to do more.
- You begin a voluntary, intentional relationship with me as the creator, with full control over how you choose to engage with future offerings.
Get your copy
If this resonates, here’s how to get your copy and start the journey:
- Order online (below) via print-on-demand (expect to receive in 9–14 days)
- Bulk offers: contact me about options for your group (20+ books)
- Local pickup: contact me if you live near Milwaukie, OR and want to avoid shipping fees.
Hiding Inside a Man: Finding Strength in Self-Compassion
On Sale
$35.00
$35.00
A uniquely illustrated graphic novel that invites men—and anyone interested in understanding men—to explore the inner world of masculinity through the lens of self-compassion.