This excerpt is from "All-of-a-kind Family" by Sydney Taylor.  I read
the book when I was in elementary school, and, much to my delight,
"rediscovered" it at a used book sale.  The text wonderfully describes
the children's fascination with a carousel during a trip to Coney
Island.

"Soon above the noise, they could hear jolly organ music.  That meant
they were near the carousel.  They quickened their pace for they loved
the whirling horses so splendid in their shiny colors.  When they had
reached it, they stood still and watched wistfully while other little
girls and boys climbed aboard the platform to be lifted up to the backs
of these most beautiful animals.  They did not ask Mama to let them
ride.  They knew there was no money to spare for such luxuries.  It was
a long time before they consented to move.  Gathering them together
Mama checked off rapidly: `Ella, Henny, Sarah, Charlotte, and
Gertie--all here.' "

Joyce Brite