This book & idea have been out since the early 70’s  Mel Bartholomew (from what I understand) used to be on PBS.  This book has survived and the idea has grown.  It is making a come back with a new cover and a cookbook.  Mel Bartholomew has pod casts and appears on shows.

The book was revamped in the early 80’s and is a great tool.  Every year I try steps involved in square foot gardening.  This year I have 3 beds (8×4) set up in the square foot gardening.  Click here to learn more

If you have a spot of land, then you can do this system which is based on square feet (1×1) and anyone can do it.  Great instructions and explanations.  I would suggest this to new gardeners because you do not already have a preconceived notion on ‘row planting’