From silence to strength one truth at a time

“Hear My Cry” is Calvin Ockletree’s answer to the untold stories and rumors surrounding his life. Through vulnerable and passionate poetry, he invites readers into his world by exploring insecurities, substance abuse, spiritual battles, relationships, and cultural struggles. His words are a cry for help and a hope that someone will listen. Calvin aims to inspire others to speak up, connect, and find strength in their own stories.

“You Are Not Alone" is Calvin Ockletree’s powerful collection of poems inspired by his experiences in mental institutions. Through raw emotion and honest reflection, he explores pain, hope, and the strength to keep going. This book offers a moving journey through darkness toward resilience, healing, and the transformative power of expression.

Calvin Ockletree spent years in silence, carrying unseen wounds and unspoken truths. “Never Release This” marks his decision to reclaim his identity and speak in his own voice after being told he should not. Through honest, vulnerable writing, he encourages anyone who has felt invisible or weighed down by pain to remember that healing is possible and their voice matters. This isn’t their version of his story. It’s his.

REVIEWS

  • "Love weaves its transformative power throughout the pages, challenging norms and revealing Calvin's vulnerability. You'll feel the same waves of emotion he experienced, as love both uplifts and challenges him. "

    — Ruth

  • "This book is simply a breath of fresh air, the poet captured his thoughts and feelings immensely, and even the prologue was already relatable before the poems begin"

    — Bree

  • "Mr. Ockletree writes with depth and passion. And he does not hesitate laying his heart out there. From his poem, The Season Of The Mortal And The Goddess: Oh, I wish you could connect with me now / Only so I can write my poetry / On the skin of your body with my tongue, so that you can feel my deepest / thoughts. When he speaks these words you know he means it. Wonderful lines from a wonderful poem within a collection of poetry worthy of deeper study."

    — Drew

  • "Men have been taught from young to not let their emotions show “to man up” and would be ridiculed or chastised if hey cried or expressed emotions especially painful ones. This author has poured out every emotion known that men are afraid to in a manner that leaves you in awe. He writes in a manner that speaks to you regardless of gender and will have you rereading poem after poem drawing different perspectives and realities."

    — Marina

  • "This book is very well written and straight from the depths of his heart. I’m so grateful to own one of these historic books of time."

    — Monique

  • "Raw. Honest. Unforgettable. Calvin Ockletree's 'Thoughts of Suicide' is more than poetry—it's survival in verse. Every line carries the weight of lived experience, and yet, leaves you with a sense of hope you didn’t expect."

    — A. Jones, Mental Health Advocate

  • "This book cracked me open. Calvin’s words speak directly to the quiet battles many of us face but are too afraid to name. It’s not just a read—it’s a journey through darkness into light."

    — T. Ramirez, Reader & Therapist

  • "Ockletree’s poems are hauntingly beautiful—each one a window into the mind of someone fighting to stay alive. 'Thoughts of Suicide' is a testament to the healing power of self-expression."

    — Mason D,

  • "Thoughts of Suicide should be required reading for anyone trying to understand mental health on a deeper level. Calvin Ockletree turns vulnerability into art, and in doing so, gives others permission to heal."

    — Jacob