Brake!

by Catarina Hansson, Katri Hansson

One day, my Grandma decides to try out my new roller skates. It doesn't matter that she is almost 100 years old or that she lives by a dirt road in the country. If Grandma has made up her mind about something, it usually turns out the way she wants.

Brake! is a story about how you can be best friends even though you’re different, and how you’re never too old for adventure or too young to speak up.

30 pages, Paperback

Published August 9, 2024

About the author

Hello! I am Catarina Hansson, a Swedish author, teacher, editor, and illustrator with a lifelong passion for Nordic folklore, Norse mythology, and the stories that live in the deep roots of Scandinavian culture.
I spent my career as a teacher working with children and watching what the right book at the right moment can do inside a young reader's imagination. That experience is in every word I write. My books have been published in Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, stories that travel because the best stories always do.
My greatest creative adventure has been the Ella Trilogy, a complete three-book Norse fantasy series set in the mythical world of Nordanland. When I write about oknytt, Aesir faith, gealdors, runes, and seid magic, I am writing from genuine Swedish cultural knowledge, not borrowed imagination. These are the creatures and the beliefs of my heritage and I love bringing them to life for young readers who are hungry for fantasy that feels real because it is.
The Ella Trilogy follows Tora, a young royal daughter who is a powerful seer and healer slowly discovering the full extraordinary scope of her abilities, and her loyal companion Wolf through a complete and fully satisfying Norse fantasy adventure. All three books are written and waiting for you.
I live in southern Sweden with my husband. I love hearing from readers, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Reviews

[booksforreaders25 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brake by Catarina Hansson is a delightfully unique story. One day, the narrator’s grandmother decides she wants to try roller skating despite being almost 100 years old. The narrator worries she might get hurt, but Grandma is the kind of person who follows through once she’s made up her mind.

As Grandma begins skating, she realizes she has no idea where the brake is. In the chaos, she grabs onto Bella the cow’s tail and suddenly goes zooming across the meadows! What happens next? You’ll have to read the story to find out.

This charming tale reminds readers that you’re never too old for an adventure. It also shows children that friendships can exist across different ages, even when people are very different. The author’s storytelling is engaging, the illustrations are beautiful, and overall, it’s a thoroughly enjoyable read.

[Rutuja Ramteke · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Brake!* is one of those rare children’s books that says so much with so little. It’s funny, heartfelt, and unexpectedly profound—wrapped in the charming image of a 100-year-old grandma determined to try on her grandchild’s roller skates. The premise alone sparks laughter, but what makes the story truly memorable is its emotional depth and the tender bond it portrays across generations.

This isn’t just a tale about a quirky adventure on a dirt road—it’s about fearlessness, friendship, and the quiet power of understanding between the very young and the very old. The narrator’s voice feels natural and honest, while Grandma is a delightful force of nature, reminding us all that adventure doesn’t come with an age cap, and wisdom isn’t reserved for the elders.

Beautifully written and brimming with spirit, *Brake!* encourages kids to speak up, trust their instincts, and believe in the unexpected. It’s a celebration of individuality, courage, and the kind of love that breaks all rules—on roller skates or otherwise. A short story, yes, but one that rolls right into your heart.

[Eleanor Pilcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brake! is a joyful, heartwarming story that celebrates courage, friendship, and the beautiful bond between generations. With humor and tenderness, the book reminds us that adventure doesn’t belong to the young alone and that sometimes the bravest spirit lives in the oldest heart. Grandma’s fearless decision to try roller skates becomes a powerful moment of connection, laughter, and trust.

What makes this story so special is its gentle message about speaking up, being different, and still standing together as best friends. It shows young readers that their voices matter, while also proving that age is never a limit to joy, curiosity, or bold living. Brake! is charming, uplifting, and packed with emotional warmth in just a few pages.

[Rowena Lockwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brake! is such a warm and uplifting read. I loved how the story centers on Grandma’s determination to try something new despite her age it’s both funny and genuinely inspiring. The relationship between the characters feels real and full of affection, and the message about courage and embracing life at any stage comes through beautifully. It’s simple, but it stays with you.

[Amara Zoric · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a lovely little book with a big message. Grandma completely stole the show for me her stubborn, adventurous spirit makes the story both entertaining and meaningful. I also appreciated how naturally the book touches on friendship and confidence without feeling forced. It’s the kind of story that works for both kids and adults.

[Elira Kovac · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a lovely little book with a big message. Grandma completely stole the show for me — her stubborn, adventurous spirit makes the story both entertaining and meaningful. I also appreciated how naturally the book touches on friendship and confidence without feeling forced. It’s the kind of story that works for both kids and adults.

[Samira Velez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It has a playful surface, but there’s something deeper in the way it handles themes of age, courage, and self-expression. Grandma’s character is memorable and inspiring, and the bond in the story feels genuine. It’s the kind of book that leaves you with a smile and something to think about.

[Claire Winslow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brake! is a charming and heartwarming story with a beautiful message. Grandma’s determination and spirit make this short read both fun and inspiring. It’s a lovely reminder that you’re never too old for adventure and never too young to speak up. Simple, sweet, and meaningful.

[Tahlia Nwosu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brake! is simple, sweet, and surprisingly meaningful. What stood out to me most was how it celebrates individuality and the idea that it’s never too late to try something new. The story flows easily, and the message is clear without being heavy. A really enjoyable and uplifting read.