I think a very good trainer is the Dynaflite Butterfly.
http://www.dynaflite.com/airplanes/dyfa1010.html
I started with a Hobbico Superstar. Crash. Then got a Sig LT40 which is great. Then thought I wanted to build something, So got the Butterfly. Amaizingly fun to fly. Turns and loops on a dime, and looks odd flying inverted. Took forever to build. Too bad it isn't made as an ARF.
Also the oldtimer designs such as the Playboy make for easy trainers.
FR