Frequently Recommended Lenses

OK.  I can heartily recommend the Canon EF-S 17-55 f/2.8 IS USM lens.  This is a very sharp lens at all apertures.  It has a constant f/2.8 aperture, in other words, the lens does not stop down as you zoom in.  It has 3 stop IS (Image Stabilization) which helps greatly when taking photos of motionless subjects in low light.  Focusing is by USM (Ultra Sonic Motor) which is very fast and accurate.  The only downside is the price:  About $1k lately.

--
Yogi
When you get down to the nuts and bolts of photography, the results depend on the 'nut' behind the camera!
See the 'Gear List' in my 'Profile' for my current equipment.
Check out WilbaW's beginner FAQs at - http://snipurl.com/RebelFAQ