Northwood by Brian Falkner

Walker Books, 2011. ISBN 978-1-921529-80-1
(Suitable for 8 to 10 year olds). Cecilia Undergarment, an unusual name, lives in an unusual house. Her father sells balloons and their balloon shaped home is 'suspended' in the air. Cecilia can communicate with animals (unusual ) and while talking to her neighbour's neglected dog Rocky, decides to rescue him. It is this decision that results in Rocky and Cecilia floating in her detached balloon bedroom into the dark and dangerous forests of Northwood, where no one ever returns.
While being pursued by the notorious, ferocious black lions in the forest, Cecilia and Rocky discover a community of fellow lost travellers who have been living together in an abandoned castle. This community is ruled by the despot, King Harry.
Brave and resourceful Cecilia sets about discovering the mysteries and stories of the lost castle, King Harry's background and a way home for everyone.
The author often talks directly to the reader, challenging the truth of this fantasy story.
The ending resolves many of the forest's mysteries but I would have liked a bit more information about the outcomes for the other lost inhabitants.
Jane Moore