In this book the separation is a big issue. The main character Gene feels separated from his best friend Phineas. Phineas and Gene are good friends but Gene is jealous that Phineas is more athletic than him. This causes Gene to think that Phineas is better than him. Gene's jealousy causes him to lash out and try to sabotage Phineas even thought they are best friends.
Gene and Phineas can relate to real life teenagers because we often have the same issues. Teenagers also face the same insecurity problems. Teenagers often become jealous of someone because they cant be like them. Jealousy will causes teenagers to sabotage others just like gene.
Something in today's society makes teenagers feel that they need to best at everything to be happy. But this mentality is what will causes teenagers to destroy there friendships and their confidence. Gene and Phineas show why you should be proud of who you are and not try to "one up" anybody.
