Everything Worth Counting: A Mother and Son’s Journey Beyond the Iron Curtain

by Mihaela Balan Larsen

It's 1977 in Zimnicea, Romania.

An earthquake has reduced the home of ten-year-old Alex to rubble, taking with it his father and his best friend. With their world in ruins and Ceaușescu tightening his grip on a fearful nation, Alex's mother, Eva, must find the strength to protect her son and fight for a future beyond the confines of Communist Romania.

Inspired by real events, this story captures the heartbreak of loss, the value of tradition, and the enduring hope of a migrant mother and son determined to build a better life from the ashes.

308 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 28, 2025

About the author

In the tumultuous landscape of 1970s Romania, a mother and her son embark on an uncertain journey from the ruins of their home to the dream of a new life in Barcelona.

Alex is ten years old when the Vrancea earthquake reduces his home to rubble, taking with it his father and his best friend. Suddenly, it is only him and his mother, Eva, left in the ruins.

With Ceaușescu tightening his grip on a fearful nation, they take refuge at his grandparents’ home in the countryside. Alex struggles to adapt to rural life, while Eva, in the midst of grief and fear for their future, is secretly plotting their escape.

When he least expects it, Alex finds himself hiding in a boat’s storage room, his knees clenched to his chest, sobbing and hoping that nobody can hear his beating heart. He begins counting: twenty-one, twenty-two …

Inspired by real events and places, Alex and Eva’s story is one of family, immigration, and relationships. Even when faced with unfamiliar worlds, new people, and uncertain beginnings, they always carry the image of their loved and lost ones and the flavours of their country in their hearts.
Everything Worth Counting is the first book in the planned series From the Meadows of Izvoarele.

Reviews

[Clara Mack · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Everything Worth Counting” is a heartfelt reminder of how fragile and resilient the human spirit can be. Alex and Eva’s journey pulled me in from the first page, weaving grief, love, and hope into a powerful story. The author beautifully captures the terror of life under Ceausescu while highlighting the quiet strength of a mother determined to give her son more than what their broken world allows. It is tender, raw, and unforgettable.

[Ronnie Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is a moving portrayal of life in Communist Romania, but more importantly, it is a story about endurance. The descriptions of the earthquake’s aftermath and the political fear surrounding the characters feel authentic and immersive. Alex’s innocence paired with Eva’s fierce courage creates a compelling emotional balance. An excellent read for anyone who appreciates historical fiction rooted in real events.

[Kelly Maverick · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Everything Worth Counting” delivers an evocative narrative that balances historical accuracy with emotional depth. The author handles themes of loss, migration, political fear, and healing with remarkable sensitivity. The pacing is steady, the world building is vivid, and the relationship between mother and son carries the story with strength and authenticity. A beautifully crafted novel that will appeal to fans of powerful, character driven stories.

[Christianne Patay · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story of a mother and son starting a new life after an earthquake — an easy read, written beautifully and captivatingly. I cannot imagine what it’s like to live in a communist country, but this certainly gave a glimpse of it all. It shows how hard it is to immigrate when you all odds are against you. It’s a great story of a mother’s strength, grief, longing, endurance and reminded me of my own story of perseverance. I finished the book in a day and waiting for a followup!

[Peace Akinola · Rating 5 out of 5]

What stands out most about “Everything Worth Counting” is its characters. Alex’s quiet bravery and Eva’s unwavering determination make this story shine. Their bond feels real and deeply human, especially as they fight for a better life under an oppressive regime. It is a book that stays with you long after you finish.

[Willia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book hit me harder than I expected. The author captures the shock, fear, and quiet strength of a child losing everything in a single moment. Every page feels real almost too real yet full of warmth and courage. It’s a heartbreaking but beautifully caring story. Exceptional work.

[Florence · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was genuinely shaken by this story. The author brings you right into the terror, grief, and fragile hope of a family trying to survive disaster and dictatorship. It’s tender, painful, and deeply human. A truly powerful novel, written with incredible compassion.

[Clara Bennet · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful and beautifully written story. Alex and Eva’s struggle after the earthquake is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The author blends history, emotion, and hope in a way that kept me turning pages. Truly a memorable book.

[Rick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have a great time reading the book. Mihaela book is indeed a work of art.

[Official Jugger · Rating 5 out of 5]

A rare novel with depth and heart. The author delivers an emotional journey filled with strength and resilience. Truly impressive.

[Trace · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written and emotionally powerful story. Rich in atmosphere, deeply human, and unforgettable.

[Anton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully layered story of loss, courage, and survival. The author’s writing is sharp, emotional, and unforgettable. A truly remarkable work.

[Lovie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful, heartfelt, and deeply human. The author captures pain and hope with stunning clarity. A brilliant, moving novel.

[Sulaiman Muritala · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping blend of history and emotion. The characters feel alive, and the storytelling is exceptional. An absolute 5-star masterpiece.

[Tanst Emme · Rating 5 out of 5]

A poignant portrayal of life under Communist Romania, anchored by rich character development and an authentic sense of place. A powerful testament to endurance and maternal strength.

[Grace Royal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly, this was an amazing read. Beautifully written, emotional, and full of heart.

[Joshua Ayo · Rating 5 out of 5]

A poignant portrayal of life under Communist Romania, anchored by rich character development and an authentic sense of place. A powerful testament to endurance and maternal strength.

[Mason Bryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A moving and unforgettable story.