This would be a good book for someone starting out. There is a getting started chapter that provides pointers on quilting technique. You learn all the tricks to cut fabric correctly. They provide directions for quilt blocks (11 patterns), projects (five patterns) and have a chapter on how to finish and complete your quilt. What I like about this books is that it assumes that you are starting out and provides detailed instructions which would be helpful for a new quilter.
A great guide for the beginning quilter, written by two women whom many will recognize through their show on some PBS stations and their magazine. The explanations are clear, and there are color photos which illustrate the written directions. There are four sections--Getting Started; Patchwork Block Lessons; Projects; and Making Your Quilt a Quilt.