Answer:
Stratocasters are very versatile and well priced guitars with many different types. Many consider the Strat and the Les Paul to be the kings of electric guitars. Strats overall have a low weight and come in various pickup configurations so you can pick the one that best fits the genre you want to play. They also range from $100-$300 range for starters or for those not able to spend a lot of money and go all the way up to the thousands of dollars.
Overall you can't go wrong with a Strat whether is is a Squire Stratocaster or a Fender Stratocaster. It is however important to play a few different models to see which is most comfortable in your hands. I personally did not like them when I started playing, the necks at the time were given a high gloss finish which did not let me hand slide easily but they have sense produced models with a smooth satin finish which gives me the comfort I desire. That is however personal preference and some guitarists prefer the high gloss finish.