I am fairly new to woodworking. I have completed three projects, a
bookshelf, some shelves and a birdhouse. Aside from the birdhouse, I
have primarily buit with Red Oak/Oak and have applied stain to complete
the project. SWMBO has asked that I build a bookshelf for my daughter
(7 yrs old). SWMBO would like to paint the bookshelf instead of
staining. I am assuming it is a sin to paint oak so I thought I would
buy a cheaper species of wood that will provide a smooth surface for
painting. Since I don't have a planer/joiner I have been purchasing
wood from the Home Depot.

What are your opinions on the type of wood I should build this project
with? I planned on building the carcus/shelves out of birch plywood,
and the face frame and top with Pine lumber. Is this a reasonable
plan? Any other suggestions on wood choices? Is birch/pine too soft
for a kid's bookcase?

Thanks

Clemey