One way is to read reviews from other parents or educators. They can give insights into which grade 2 level novels are engaging and educational. Another thing is to see if the book has won any awards for children's literature at that level. You can also flip through the pages and see if the illustrations are appealing and if the text looks easy to understand.
To choose a good grade 2 level novel, consider the interests of the child. If they like animals, look for a book with animal characters. Check the reading level indicated on the book. Some publishers clearly mark it as suitable for grade 2. You can also ask the librarian for recommendations. Librarians are very knowledgeable about books for different age groups and can suggest some great grade 2 level novels based on your child's reading ability and interests.
Look for ones with bright and colorful covers as they often attract kids. Also, check if it has a simple title that gives an idea of the story.