Understanding Narrative Inquiry: The Crafting and Analysis of Stories as Research

by Jeong-Hee Kim

Understanding Narrative The Crafting and Analysis of Stories as Research is a comprehensive, thought-provoking introduction to narrative inquiry in the social and human sciences that guides readers through the entire narrative inquiry process―from locating narrative inquiry in the interdisciplinary context, through the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings, to narrative research design, data collection (excavating stories), data analysis and interpretation, and theorizing narrative meaning. Six extracts from exemplary studies, together with questions for discussion, are provided to show how to put theory into practice. Rich in stories from author Jeong-Hee Kim’s own research endeavors and incorporating chapter-opening vignettes that illustrate a graduate student′s research dilemma, the book not only accompanies readers through the complex process of narrative inquiry with ample examples, but also helps raise their consciousness about what it means to be a qualitative researcher and a narrative inquirer in particular.

Genres: Research, Education

368 pages, Paperback

First published March 24, 2015

Reviews

[Kathrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

First half (especially the chapter on theory) should be required reading for all qualitative researchers. The second half might lose you a bit if you don't already have that firm foundation in theory and general research methods. But I appreciate how she supports and celebrates creative approaches to data gathering and storying. Refreshing and not what you'd expect from the textbook genre.

[Kelli Rushek · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the best text book I've ever read. Her theoretical explanations are excellent and her writer's voice makes reading this methodological book almost enjoyable!

[Kyle Farris · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I begin my journey to conduct research using narrative inquiry, I thought this might be a good place to start. I am somewhat conflicted in this review, as I have reached the end of the book and feel like I need to read other authors like Polkinghorne and Bahktin. Then again, because I am a novice, this might be the nature of reading works like this. I found it insightful, thorough, and inspiring.

5-Star: Everyone should read this.
4-Star: Everyone in this specific field should read this.
3-Star: This was a decent read for the specific field, but there are better options.
2-Star: It got me to the end of the book, so there is that.
1-Star: It was bad enough that I didn't finish it.

[Fiona · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would give this more than 5 stars if I could- an accessible, practical and inspiring read.