The Road to Roma is a novel about young American men and women who survived the poverty and lack of opportunity during the Great American depression and went on to serve our country during World War II. It mainly centers on one soldier’s journeys through battles in North Africa and Italy. It also touches on another soldier’s experiences in the battle of the bulge. Family values and hard work help the characters survive this intensive period. Religious beliefs and Midwestern work ethics also help them prevail. The ability to endure personal tragedy, volcanoes and battlefield carnage harden these young Americans for the tough road of life ahead.