Mario voice actor writing autobiography, loves to give the 'thumbs up'

Actor Charles Martinet, the man behind the voice of Mario, has revealed that he's working on an autobiography. The book, which Marninet hopes to have ready for a 2008 release, will focus on his time working with Nintendo.

"I've actually started working a little bit on a book," he tells CVG, "but it's about finding the discipline to keep going. But I will be inspired [to finish it] by the fans."

As the voice of the one of the most iconic characters of our time (next to Mr. Destructoid, of course), an autobiography could provide a good deal of insight on what it's like to work for the videogames giant. We would also like to request that Martinet explain why Mario has an Italian accent, when we've all been given the impression that he was a plumber from Brooklyn. As far as we can tell, it was unlikely that Mario was born in Italy, and the only time he visited the country was in Mario is Missing. We can't imagine he picked up the accent in the short amount of time he spent there. It just makes no sense.

Additionally, we'd appreciate it if Martinet could also speak a bit on whatever medical condition he has that causes him to give the "thumbs up" every time a camera flashes. Do a search for Martinet on Flickr, and you'll see what I mean. It's downright bizarre.