On January 24th, AKB48 member Sashihara Rino held a handshake event to commemorate the release of her 1st photobook, "Sashiko" (released on January 19th).

Sashihara has enjoyed a strong year so far, as she's landed a lead role in the drama 'Muse no Kagami' for the first time, made a solo debut, and released her own photobook. She commented, "Since nothing has brought consequences yet, I want to look back on this year as a leaping year after getting good results."

"Sashiko" consists of all-new photos, an interview with Sashihara, and a special round-table discussion between AKB48's general producer Akimoto Yasushi, Ariyoshi Hiroiki, and Kojima Haruna. It will also include a document about Sashihara's roots from her hometown, Oita, as well as newly written essay by Sashihara herself.

Sashihara revealed that her�favorite content were the gravia photos, and said with a smile, "I was happy when Maeda Atsuko-chan praised the cover of the photobook." When asked about the sales target for the photobook, Sashihara replied, "Since Oshima Yuko-chan sold 190,000 copies, I would aim for 170,000 copies. I know that I won't be able to reach hers."

Sashihara is loved by the fans for her "Hetare (=cowardly)" character, however, she doesn't think she is actually "Hetare". "I have a pretty strong heart, so I want to get rid of the 'Hetare' this year," she said.

Source & Image: Cinematoday