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The Disappearing Seat
Book 2 in the Elita Brown series.
December normally brings joy to Elita Brown’s heart with the coziness of winter and the anticipation of Christmas. But when Elita compares her life to others, her best friends seem to have it so much better. Margo hosts a fancy holiday dinner party; Joy discovers a hibernating bear on her family’s property, and Stephen shares his love of football with Joy. Even her little sister Cally has a seemingly perfect life with a special role in The Nutcracker. Every day, Elita grows more and more jealous.
To make matters worse, the principal of Siler Middle School insists on a school-wide speech competition. Can Elita get over her fear of public speaking? How can her jealous heart heal? And where is her mentor Mrs. Burgley when she needs her most of all?
In The Disappearing Seat, Elita discovers the secret to savoring the good gifts all around her. Through the wisdom revealed in nature and a loving spiritual mentor, Elita learns what it means to have access to the riches of God’s kingdom and how to enjoy the beautiful life God has given her. Readers will delight in what they learn about the bears, owls, and the frozen vernal ponds in the Pennsylvania forest (which all become symbols of Elita’s spiritual growth). With great discussion questions included, this book helps young readers on their journey with Jesus.
December normally brings joy to Elita Brown’s heart with the coziness of winter and the anticipation of Christmas. But when Elita compares her life to others, her best friends seem to have it so much better. Margo hosts a fancy holiday dinner party; Joy discovers a hibernating bear on her family’s property, and Stephen shares his love of football with Joy. Even her little sister Cally has a seemingly perfect life with a special role in The Nutcracker. Every day, Elita grows more and more jealous.
To make matters worse, the principal of Siler Middle School insists on a school-wide speech competition. Can Elita get over her fear of public speaking? How can her jealous heart heal? And where is her mentor Mrs. Burgley when she needs her most of all?
In The Disappearing Seat, Elita discovers the secret to savoring the good gifts all around her. Through the wisdom revealed in nature and a loving spiritual mentor, Elita learns what it means to have access to the riches of God’s kingdom and how to enjoy the beautiful life God has given her. Readers will delight in what they learn about the bears, owls, and the frozen vernal ponds in the Pennsylvania forest (which all become symbols of Elita’s spiritual growth). With great discussion questions included, this book helps young readers on their journey with Jesus.
- GenresMiddle Grade
144 pages, Paperback
Published March 4, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
March 8, 2025
Recommendation Status
When it comes to books for kids and teens, there is a lot of inappropriate content available. Some books are a better choice than others by comparison. They may not be my favorite, on their own, but I would gladly recommend them in place of the other options.
Then there are books like The Disappearing Seat: titles that I delight in recommending, because they are not just free of unwholesome content, but also actively promote good and true messages. The Disappearing Seat is a timeless novel for middle grade girls that explores themes of comparison, identity and self-worth; pointing to the deep and resonant truth that matters most of all: our value comes from Jesus.
Holleman’s sophomore middle grade novel carries on the sheer excellence of the first volume in the series. Elita Brown is a delightfully relatable protagonist and a fantastic role model, and I believe that The Disappearing Seat, with its enduring message, may be one of my strongest recommendations of the year. Highly recommended for girls aged 11 and up.
Scripture Connection
Elita receives sweet counsel from her dear friend, Mrs. Burgley, who shares the following passage with her. It’s referenced a few times:
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
1 Tim. 6:17-19
There’s also some really neat interaction with the Psalms, as Elita finds that the psalmists wrote about the very same things she is experiencing. There’s even a reference to a young psalmist, which I had never noticed, in the Bible.
Spiritual Themes
It’s not too often that this happens, but the key “spiritual theme” in this book is something of a surprise, as Elita gets a teaser early on, but must work to learn her friend’s “secret.”
I will say that the book focuses on jealousy and comparisons, and there is some powerful and Scriptural advice about combating these challenges.
Elita is walking with Jesus from the start of the book, and it is so heartwarming to see the growth she has experienced, since the start of book one. I really appreciate her heart for Jesus, even in the midst of rough moments. Elita takes her fears and negative feelings to Him, which is a great example and reminder for me, as an adult reader.
I also really appreciate how Elita’s heart flows out in words, just like the Bible says (see Luke 6:45). At points, we see her mentioning God or Jesus in conversations with friends– even unintentionally, simply because He is who she’s thinking about. This is so refreshing! She’s not performing an “act of evangelism” from a place of pressure or guilt; she just can’t help speaking about Jesus.
What I Liked
The Disappearing Seat is my most-anticipated read of the year, to date. I thoroughly enjoyed This Seat’s Saved and was elated to discover that Elita would have more books. (I also recently found that The Elite Seat, book 3, is slated for publication toward the end of this year. I’m so excited!).
A Relatable Role Model
Book two, like the first book in the series, proved to be stellar: exactly what I’m looking for in a book for middle grade girls. In terms of providing a relatable character who is also a role model, the books remind me of the Christy Miller series by Robin Jones Gunn– but for a younger audience. (So, if you’re dreaming of the day that that you can share Christy and her “Forever Friends” with your daughter, Elita Brown may be the perfect stepping stone along the way!).
Elita really stands out to me as a role model because of how relatable she is. There are a lot of “good” characters in books, protagonists who make great choices and demonstrate traits like love and compassion, from the start. But I’m less likely to draw inspiration from a character who is clearly a better person than myself. Such goodness can feel unattainable.
Elita inspires me, though. She’s not admirable because she doesn’t get jealous of her friends; she’s admirable because she does get jealous– and she seeks Jesus, and she repents, and most of all, she really just wants to keep walking with Him. If Elita can take her imperfections to Jesus and seek to grow in Him, even in these rough situations… well, I guess I can, too. (I know that may sound simplistic, as an adult reader, but I truly had a moment of reflection and a desire to respond like Elita in my own situations).
Inter-Generational Friendship
Elita’s dear friend, Mrs. Burgley (whom she met in book one), has moved away, but the two continue their relationship via email. Elita recognizes that older people are a source of wisdom, and for this reason, she chooses to share about her life and take Mrs. Burgley’s advice to heart. Elita also demonstrates respect for her parents, as well as the other adults in her life. It’s refreshing to read a children’s book where the child is not the “expert,” but instead accepts, and even solicits, direction. Elita recognizes that wisdom comes with age, and it is clear that she treasures the wise advice of those who care about her.
Family Relationships
In book two, I was delighted to see Elita’s renewed, positive relationship with her parents. Elita often shares fondly about the things her mom does as a teacher, and she also demonstrates respect for her father’s opinions (such as that she is “too young to have a boyfriend”). Elita also offers assistance without being asked: taking the initiative to make snowflakes for her mom’s classroom.
The Disappearing Seat also shines a spotlight on Elita’s relationship with her little sister, Callie. It’s fun to read about sisters enjoying their relationship, without becoming aggressive and competitive. Both girls demonstrate kindness to and appreciation for one another, with Elita taking some time to “savor” her relationship with Callie.
Integration of Naturalism
Elita is a young naturalist with compassion for, and curiosity towards, the world around her. While book one focused on her tracking a red fox on its nightly treks through the forest, book two features repeated references to black bears and owls. These animals become representative of Elita’s feelings, and they also serve as a reminder of the things she is learning about comparisons.
Throughout the text, Elita keeps the reader abreast of her scientific learning, as she happily adds definitions like “camouflage” and “torpor” to her journal.
Journaling and Savoring
There’s a strong emphasis on journaling, and Elita often grabs her brown notebook in order to process her emotions, experiences, and learning–with God.
For those already journaling, the text offers numerous ideas to potentially enhance the experience. For instance, Elita likes to define new words, as well as to make gratitude lists. Readers who are not journaling may take an interest in the craft making this a notable SEL read, for those seeking such titles– but a CHRISTIAN SEL read!). And, Moody Publishers is also offering a separate companion journal, Sit and Savor. Although I haven’t yet had the opportunity to look through this book, it sounds neat!
Along with Elita’s journaling, there’s also an emphasis on “savoring,” (which is what one must do when reading a short but utterly delightful novel like this one). This is such a beautiful message, for readers of all age. It’s a message that I’ve benefitted from, and it’s also one that I feel is especially suited to young readers, in a fast-paced, distracting culture.
Timelessness
The Disappearing Seat is the sort of book I would have liked to have had while growing up. It’s an entertaining read that also packs a powerful and potentially paradigm-shifting, message. This message is beneficial to readers of all ages, and will be just as important twenty or thirty years from now, as it is now.
The emphasis on nature over tech also contributes to the book’s timeless quality. Elita is always learning and marveling ( and praising God!) outdoors. While there are some references to texting and emailing (and Elita’s friends have social media), Elita’s emphasis is on communication and connection– not on screen time.
Content Notes
As far as Content Notes, this is one of the best titles I’ve encountered. Compared to book one, Elita demonstrates even more respect for her parents. “Romantic” content is delightfully age appropriate. Elita is good friends with her crush, and makes it clear early on that he is not her boyfriend.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.
When it comes to books for kids and teens, there is a lot of inappropriate content available. Some books are a better choice than others by comparison. They may not be my favorite, on their own, but I would gladly recommend them in place of the other options.
Then there are books like The Disappearing Seat: titles that I delight in recommending, because they are not just free of unwholesome content, but also actively promote good and true messages. The Disappearing Seat is a timeless novel for middle grade girls that explores themes of comparison, identity and self-worth; pointing to the deep and resonant truth that matters most of all: our value comes from Jesus.
Holleman’s sophomore middle grade novel carries on the sheer excellence of the first volume in the series. Elita Brown is a delightfully relatable protagonist and a fantastic role model, and I believe that The Disappearing Seat, with its enduring message, may be one of my strongest recommendations of the year. Highly recommended for girls aged 11 and up.
Scripture Connection
Elita receives sweet counsel from her dear friend, Mrs. Burgley, who shares the following passage with her. It’s referenced a few times:
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
1 Tim. 6:17-19
There’s also some really neat interaction with the Psalms, as Elita finds that the psalmists wrote about the very same things she is experiencing. There’s even a reference to a young psalmist, which I had never noticed, in the Bible.
Spiritual Themes
It’s not too often that this happens, but the key “spiritual theme” in this book is something of a surprise, as Elita gets a teaser early on, but must work to learn her friend’s “secret.”
I will say that the book focuses on jealousy and comparisons, and there is some powerful and Scriptural advice about combating these challenges.
Elita is walking with Jesus from the start of the book, and it is so heartwarming to see the growth she has experienced, since the start of book one. I really appreciate her heart for Jesus, even in the midst of rough moments. Elita takes her fears and negative feelings to Him, which is a great example and reminder for me, as an adult reader.
I also really appreciate how Elita’s heart flows out in words, just like the Bible says (see Luke 6:45). At points, we see her mentioning God or Jesus in conversations with friends– even unintentionally, simply because He is who she’s thinking about. This is so refreshing! She’s not performing an “act of evangelism” from a place of pressure or guilt; she just can’t help speaking about Jesus.
What I Liked
The Disappearing Seat is my most-anticipated read of the year, to date. I thoroughly enjoyed This Seat’s Saved and was elated to discover that Elita would have more books. (I also recently found that The Elite Seat, book 3, is slated for publication toward the end of this year. I’m so excited!).
A Relatable Role Model
Book two, like the first book in the series, proved to be stellar: exactly what I’m looking for in a book for middle grade girls. In terms of providing a relatable character who is also a role model, the books remind me of the Christy Miller series by Robin Jones Gunn– but for a younger audience. (So, if you’re dreaming of the day that that you can share Christy and her “Forever Friends” with your daughter, Elita Brown may be the perfect stepping stone along the way!).
Elita really stands out to me as a role model because of how relatable she is. There are a lot of “good” characters in books, protagonists who make great choices and demonstrate traits like love and compassion, from the start. But I’m less likely to draw inspiration from a character who is clearly a better person than myself. Such goodness can feel unattainable.
Elita inspires me, though. She’s not admirable because she doesn’t get jealous of her friends; she’s admirable because she does get jealous– and she seeks Jesus, and she repents, and most of all, she really just wants to keep walking with Him. If Elita can take her imperfections to Jesus and seek to grow in Him, even in these rough situations… well, I guess I can, too. (I know that may sound simplistic, as an adult reader, but I truly had a moment of reflection and a desire to respond like Elita in my own situations).
Inter-Generational Friendship
Elita’s dear friend, Mrs. Burgley (whom she met in book one), has moved away, but the two continue their relationship via email. Elita recognizes that older people are a source of wisdom, and for this reason, she chooses to share about her life and take Mrs. Burgley’s advice to heart. Elita also demonstrates respect for her parents, as well as the other adults in her life. It’s refreshing to read a children’s book where the child is not the “expert,” but instead accepts, and even solicits, direction. Elita recognizes that wisdom comes with age, and it is clear that she treasures the wise advice of those who care about her.
Family Relationships
In book two, I was delighted to see Elita’s renewed, positive relationship with her parents. Elita often shares fondly about the things her mom does as a teacher, and she also demonstrates respect for her father’s opinions (such as that she is “too young to have a boyfriend”). Elita also offers assistance without being asked: taking the initiative to make snowflakes for her mom’s classroom.
The Disappearing Seat also shines a spotlight on Elita’s relationship with her little sister, Callie. It’s fun to read about sisters enjoying their relationship, without becoming aggressive and competitive. Both girls demonstrate kindness to and appreciation for one another, with Elita taking some time to “savor” her relationship with Callie.
Integration of Naturalism
Elita is a young naturalist with compassion for, and curiosity towards, the world around her. While book one focused on her tracking a red fox on its nightly treks through the forest, book two features repeated references to black bears and owls. These animals become representative of Elita’s feelings, and they also serve as a reminder of the things she is learning about comparisons.
Throughout the text, Elita keeps the reader abreast of her scientific learning, as she happily adds definitions like “camouflage” and “torpor” to her journal.
Journaling and Savoring
There’s a strong emphasis on journaling, and Elita often grabs her brown notebook in order to process her emotions, experiences, and learning–with God.
For those already journaling, the text offers numerous ideas to potentially enhance the experience. For instance, Elita likes to define new words, as well as to make gratitude lists. Readers who are not journaling may take an interest in the craft making this a notable SEL read, for those seeking such titles– but a CHRISTIAN SEL read!). And, Moody Publishers is also offering a separate companion journal, Sit and Savor. Although I haven’t yet had the opportunity to look through this book, it sounds neat!
Along with Elita’s journaling, there’s also an emphasis on “savoring,” (which is what one must do when reading a short but utterly delightful novel like this one). This is such a beautiful message, for readers of all age. It’s a message that I’ve benefitted from, and it’s also one that I feel is especially suited to young readers, in a fast-paced, distracting culture.
Timelessness
The Disappearing Seat is the sort of book I would have liked to have had while growing up. It’s an entertaining read that also packs a powerful and potentially paradigm-shifting, message. This message is beneficial to readers of all ages, and will be just as important twenty or thirty years from now, as it is now.
The emphasis on nature over tech also contributes to the book’s timeless quality. Elita is always learning and marveling ( and praising God!) outdoors. While there are some references to texting and emailing (and Elita’s friends have social media), Elita’s emphasis is on communication and connection– not on screen time.
Content Notes
As far as Content Notes, this is one of the best titles I’ve encountered. Compared to book one, Elita demonstrates even more respect for her parents. “Romantic” content is delightfully age appropriate. Elita is good friends with her crush, and makes it clear early on that he is not her boyfriend.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.
August 13, 2025
"That's her seat."
After loving This Seat's Saved, the first book in the Elita Brown series, I was skeptical about book two measuring up to the perfect blend of a simple storyline, realistic characters, and powerful truth found in book one. But I was again blown away!
I think it really takes a talented writer to write in such a way that feels authentic to a middle schooler's mind and emotions while also appealing to adult readers. Heather Holleman does this beautifully. I wouldn't hesitate for a second to recommend this to the middle-grade-aged girls in your life, but I also commend it to women of any age. As much as I'd like to think I'm past feelings of envy or comparison, I found the biblical truth Elita learned about in the book to be just what I need to hear and meditate on when tempted in this way. We are "seated with Christ," and that changes everything.
My sincere thanks to Moody Publishers for the privilege of receiving a review copy. Be sure to pick this up before book 3 releases in October! All opinions are my own.
After loving This Seat's Saved, the first book in the Elita Brown series, I was skeptical about book two measuring up to the perfect blend of a simple storyline, realistic characters, and powerful truth found in book one. But I was again blown away!
I think it really takes a talented writer to write in such a way that feels authentic to a middle schooler's mind and emotions while also appealing to adult readers. Heather Holleman does this beautifully. I wouldn't hesitate for a second to recommend this to the middle-grade-aged girls in your life, but I also commend it to women of any age. As much as I'd like to think I'm past feelings of envy or comparison, I found the biblical truth Elita learned about in the book to be just what I need to hear and meditate on when tempted in this way. We are "seated with Christ," and that changes everything.
My sincere thanks to Moody Publishers for the privilege of receiving a review copy. Be sure to pick this up before book 3 releases in October! All opinions are my own.
June 13, 2025
This is the second book in the Elita Brown series. The first book, This Seat's Saved, explored Elita's struggles with social exclusion and bullying in middle school. That book shared a powerful message about what it means to be "seated with Christ" (Ephesians 2:6), regardless of how you rank on the social ladder. In The Disappearing Seat, things are going much better for Elita, but she is struggling with some life transitions, and she feels like her life is boring and disappointing when she compares herself to her friends.
This book tells an engaging story about Elita's school life, friendships, and passion for nature, and author Heather Holleman weaves in important life lessons, partly through Elita's email correspondence with a mentor. Although this sequel isn't as strong as the first book, I enjoyed it. The writing is excellent, the book has a vivid sense of place, and the main character's thoughts and reactions feel very convincing. I appreciate how well Holleman represented a sensitive, introspective girl's complex inner life.
The book will appeal to girls in late elementary school and middle school. However, even though this book is very appropriate for that age group, parents will want to be aware that a significant plot point involves Elita and her crush spending unsupervised time alone in the woods, working on a nature project for school. Elita and this boy have a healthy, non-sexual friendship, but most parents I know wouldn't be comfortable letting their preteen daughter hang out alone in the woods with a member of the opposite sex. Parents should be aware of this as a potential talking point with their daughters.
I would recommend that people start with the first book, since it is important to already understand the characters and their relationships with each other. Some of the side characters don't get much development in the sequel, and it's important to already know who they are from the first novel. Also, even though I enjoyed this book, I felt that it wrapped up too easily at the end, and that aspects of the conclusion were over-the-top.
The Disappearing Seat is an engaging story that middle-grade girls will relate to, and it offers great messages about finding contentment in God and avoiding the trap of comparison. This story also highlights the spiritual and mental health benefits of journaling, and if girls would like to keep a daily log like Elita's, they might enjoy the Sit and Savor Journal, which is a companion workbook from the same publisher.
I received a free copy from the publisher, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This book tells an engaging story about Elita's school life, friendships, and passion for nature, and author Heather Holleman weaves in important life lessons, partly through Elita's email correspondence with a mentor. Although this sequel isn't as strong as the first book, I enjoyed it. The writing is excellent, the book has a vivid sense of place, and the main character's thoughts and reactions feel very convincing. I appreciate how well Holleman represented a sensitive, introspective girl's complex inner life.
The book will appeal to girls in late elementary school and middle school. However, even though this book is very appropriate for that age group, parents will want to be aware that a significant plot point involves Elita and her crush spending unsupervised time alone in the woods, working on a nature project for school. Elita and this boy have a healthy, non-sexual friendship, but most parents I know wouldn't be comfortable letting their preteen daughter hang out alone in the woods with a member of the opposite sex. Parents should be aware of this as a potential talking point with their daughters.
I would recommend that people start with the first book, since it is important to already understand the characters and their relationships with each other. Some of the side characters don't get much development in the sequel, and it's important to already know who they are from the first novel. Also, even though I enjoyed this book, I felt that it wrapped up too easily at the end, and that aspects of the conclusion were over-the-top.
The Disappearing Seat is an engaging story that middle-grade girls will relate to, and it offers great messages about finding contentment in God and avoiding the trap of comparison. This story also highlights the spiritual and mental health benefits of journaling, and if girls would like to keep a daily log like Elita's, they might enjoy the Sit and Savor Journal, which is a companion workbook from the same publisher.
I received a free copy from the publisher, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
July 20, 2025
This is a beautiful reminder that even when we claim our seat with Jesus as a Christian, there is still a lot for us to learn.
I wish I had this book when I was in seventh grade. It is a continuation of Elita Brown's middle school journey. In this Seat is Saved, Heather Holleman does a beautiful job of navigating through the emotional minefield of middle school to remind us that our identity and value is defined my Christ.
In the Disappearing Seat, the middle school drama continues, and envy is showing its green face. From the Nature Club and a mystery in the woods, Elita feels like she's not so important at Jesus' table. With the chaos of the annual "Nutcracker" performance taking over her home, Elita must choose between being in the spotlight or being thankful for the seat Jesus has given her.
A beautifully written story. I wish I could make it required reading for all sixth and seventh graders. It is a beautiful reminder of the heart of Jesus and his heart and desire for us.
I wish I had this book when I was in seventh grade. It is a continuation of Elita Brown's middle school journey. In this Seat is Saved, Heather Holleman does a beautiful job of navigating through the emotional minefield of middle school to remind us that our identity and value is defined my Christ.
In the Disappearing Seat, the middle school drama continues, and envy is showing its green face. From the Nature Club and a mystery in the woods, Elita feels like she's not so important at Jesus' table. With the chaos of the annual "Nutcracker" performance taking over her home, Elita must choose between being in the spotlight or being thankful for the seat Jesus has given her.
A beautifully written story. I wish I could make it required reading for all sixth and seventh graders. It is a beautiful reminder of the heart of Jesus and his heart and desire for us.
July 11, 2025
Oh my goodness!! Sooooooo dang good!! I cant wait for the next one and am seriously considering pre-ordering it!! Thank you Heather Holloman for making amazing books that help explain truth and the truth in Gods word! I loved this one because it was so engaging, and also like a more new age read, but also christian at the same time. Loved it! I love how Elita learns even when it seems like her seat doesn’t exist anymore, she learns that it certainly does, and will never not exist when you’re seated with God. Can’t say enough good about it, and i also love the companion journal so far! So good!! This is a must buy! I especially love it because i am around Elita’s age. A must read as well!!! ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2025
Cute and sweet. A story about a thirteen year-old's walk with Jesus. Would highly recommend to girls of all age groups.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews