November 2025 — Joanna Thielmann, licensed clinical social worker, registered play therapist, and mom, has teamed up with Maryland-based illustrator and muralist Jennifer Lenderking to release The Tale of Polly Bagel, a heartwarming children’s book that teaches young readers how to understand and manage their emotions.
Polly Bagel isn’t your ordinary breakfast treat—she’s a little bagel with big feelings. Sometimes her emotions overwhelm her and she fights, sometimes she runs away, sometimes she freezes—but with friends and fun coping strategies, Polly shows children that it’s possible to face challenges, regulate emotions, and bounce back with confidence.
Inspired by the Polyvagal Theory, a scientific approach to understanding how the brain and body respond to stress, The Tale of Polly Bagel introduces children to emotional regulation, resilience, and connection. Younger readers enjoy the playful “toasty, fresh, frozen” language, while adults and developmentally advanced children can explore the underlying nervous system concepts.
“Children often find it harder to manage big emotions than adults, and caregivers sometimes struggle to support them,” explains Thielmann. “Polly Bagel provides a fun, approachable way for families to talk about feelings, practice coping skills, and build emotional awareness together.”
Illustrator Jennifer Lenderking brings Polly’s story to life with vibrant, detailed artwork that reflects her love of nature and whimsy. Her creations can be found in public murals, illustrated books, museums, and her home studio, LenderQueen Studio. Together, Thielmann and Lenderking offer a visually engaging and emotionally enriching experience for young readers.
The Tale of Polly Bagel is ideal for children, parents, educators, and therapists seeking a playful and practical tool for social-emotional learning, play therapy, or bibliotherapy. Additional printables and resources are available at www.Reflecting-Light.com.
For more information on Joanna Thielmann, her therapy practice, and the book, visit www.Reflecting-Light.com. Learn more about Jennifer Lenderking’s art at www.jenniferlenderking.com.
The Tale of Polly Bagel is now available for pre-order until December 6, with delivery in time for the holiday season.
