Rediscovering Grounded Theory

Based on a very careful analysis of original writings, this book will quickly establish itself as a seminal text and a definitive work for anyone interested in studying or using grounded theory as originated. It provides in one book, new insights and practical guidance on how to use grounded theory.

In addition to its ease  of reading and its useful structure the book goes much further than most in helping to understand the nature of Grounded Theory and where its limits might lie...Without going into any more detail I would like to say that the thoughts and experiences of the authors are professionally delivered in an interesting and well structured text. All the key issues which are required for the successful implementation of a Grounded Theory project are covered.

This is a significant text in grounded theory written with PhD and early career researchers in mind. The authors take what I would like to call a ‘purist’ approach to grounded theory by going back to the original grounded theory texts namely Discovery and Theoretical Sensitivity. Most chapters begin with learning outcomes and end with succinct summaries and there are highlights to keep the reader on track.  They also use ‘exemplar’ grounded theory texts to make their points on how to do grounded theory...All in all, this is a very interesting text and I expect it  will be an essential reading for those interested in and new to grounded theory research.

Gibson and Hartman’s use of 3 different Grounded Theory cases is persuasive and purposeful: throughout the second half of the text, the authors have drawn on insightful examples from these 3 studies, making the link between theory and fieldwork realities all the more  palpable for novice and experienced researchers alike. Gibson and Hartman conclude their book by highlighting their intentions to ‘reinvigorate grounded theory by rediscovering the context within which it was developed’ (2014: 237), an aim I feel they accomplished well...Comprehensive in its scope and clear in its explanations, Rediscovering Grounded Theory is both informative and appealing, leaving us as curious social inquirers hungry for more.

It is an ideal book for scholars who have just started their research pursuit via grounded theory and for the already experienced grounded theorists as well. The textbook manages to simplify a complicated theory in a modern, gradual and smooth way by giving simultaneously practical and up-to-date insights. Most importantly, the book enables the readers to think critically and gain new insights about grounding theory, even if they are already aware of the theory.