I first read this short story as part of the collection Small Magics. It also appears in the anthology An Apple for the Creature, edited by Charlaine Harris and Toni L.P. Kelner. My review is below:
Because I’m always thrilled to learn more about Kate’s protege, I was delighted to read “Magic Tests” in this collection. Julie shined in this story, especially because she’s not just a miniature version of Kate. She’s been influenced by all the adults in her life, and it shows in the way she handles interpersonal relationships and conflict. I also enjoyed this look into an educational institution in the world of Post-Shift Atlanta, especially because that is a world-building element often overlooked in fantasy series that are not primarily “magical school” narratives.
Rating: 5 (out of 5) stars.