SOLVED. YA fantasy novel - strange creatures that live in 3 different worlds (on land, in the trees, and in the sky/clouds). [s]

[Katers14]

There are three different "worlds" within the book, each with their own fantastical creatures: on land, in the trees, and in the clouds. I remember it being sort of scary. There were illustrations peppered throughout the book to bring the strange creatures to life.

As best I can remember, a human lives with friendlier creatures in the trees (they sleep in hammocks) and then goes on a quest to find his/her true "family" and must brave their way through the jungle floor, which is far more dangerous. I can't remember any specific creatures, besides a terrifying-looking bird/vulture. The main character also almost dies due to a creature that releases a toxic gas.

By the third book, he/she is in the cloud world.

I've been trying to think of this series for years! I believe it's a trilogy - I read them probably 10-15 years ago. Thank you so much for any/all suggestions of what this book might be.

[Katers14]

Emilie wrote: "Sounds a bit like the Deepwoods Chronicles."

Thank you so much!!!! That's it!! Wow I have been looking for this title for forever. Thanks for answering :)

[Kris]

Glad you found your book series, Katers14. Here's the link for Emilie's find - Beyond the Deepwoods by Paul Stewart.