my favorite log cabin is eleanor burns book, STAR LOG CABIN. (i think that is the name.) it was my very first quilt and she really explains and simplifies the construction. i have made many with and without the stars.
you might also ck for a paper piece block. that is a very easy method also. just not as quick.
there are many web sites with free patterns. my favorite is QUILT BLOCKS GALORE. it has both paper piece and strip piece blocks. http://www.quilterscache.com/QuiltBlocksGalore.html this is the link.