Asher is Jonas's best friend, but they seem to have a little in common. How do the two boys differ?

Asher is satisfied with the status quo. His small quirks are accepted and even celebrated by the Elders. He fits the narrow definition of "normality" in the community. Jonas questions the community and the rigid control wielded by the Elders. He evolves quickly past the status quo and has certain capabilities that no other child has.