5FDP if its just for beginners 500d is a good start mine is a canon 450 d and it does it job already, at end of the day it depends on how far she wants to go in photography. Either she wants to do it professionally or just taking normal snaps, if she wants to do it professionally i recommend a higher model because there is a chance that she need to change lenses. Remember its not the camera its the lens that matters the most, other things to consider are tripods and a flash and make sure to purchase a carry bag.

as for the simplier side of just taking photos then 500d is good enough, and just read some tutorials online to make the most out of it.

note: as i said before its not the camera its the lens hope this helps.