I still like the classic, Marlin model 60 .22 LR. I've had one since I was 14. It is super accurate and has never failed. I have passed it on down to my daughter - who outshot me with it at the range.
The only thing about the Marlin semi-autos is that you absolutely MUST keep them clean. I'm not saying just to run a patch through the bore, I mean, break it down and clean the action, the feed ramp, etc...