History and defining moments
Stories and turning points associated with October 17th, placed together in an enjoyable journey through time.
A gift made for their exact birthday
The Birthday Book: October 17th
October 17th is more than a square on the calendar. This substantial hardback gathers a world of stories connected to that precise date into one thoughtful birthday gift.
- Completely date-specific - not the same book with a different cover
- Approximately 150 pages to read, share and return to
- Hardback format designed to feel like a proper keepsake
This edition is still being created. Request it and we’ll prioritise the dates people want most.
Inside the October 17th edition
The story of one date, seen from every angle
This edition is researched and written specifically for October 17th. Its contents follow the people, moments and cultural memories linked to the date, creating a book that feels personal without needing names or photographs added.
Music, film, television and sport
Culture and entertainment connected to the day, giving readers plenty to recognise, remember and discuss.
Notable people who share the birthday
Remarkable lives linked by the same October birthday and the stories that made them memorable.
A lasting birthday keepsake
A beautifully presented hardback that works especially well for milestone birthdays and for someone who is difficult to buy for.
On this date
Five fascinating facts about October 17th
A small taste of the people, discoveries and defining moments connected to this exact day across history.
- 1660
A series of executions of the commissioners who signed the death warrant of King Charles I of England concluded; six were hanged, drawn and quartered for treason.
Read the source - 1771
Ascanio in Alba, an opera composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart at the age of 15, premiered in Milan.
Read the source - 1860
The Open Championship, the oldest of the four major championships in men's golf, was first played at Prestwick Golf Club in Scotland.
Read the source - 1992
Having gone to the wrong house in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, for a Halloween party, Japanese exchange student Yoshihiro Hattori was shot and killed by the homeowner.
Read the source - 2001
Rehavam Ze'evi, the Israeli minister of tourism, was assassinated in revenge for the killing of PFLP leader Abu Ali Mustafa.
Read the source
Historical selections adapted from Wikipedia's Selected Anniversaries pages under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence.
Questions about this edition
October 17th Birthday Book FAQs
Is the entire book about October 17th?
Yes. The contents are created around this date; it is not simply a standard interior with a different date printed on the cover.
Is it suitable for a milestone birthday?
Yes. Its hardback format and wide range of stories make it an especially thoughtful present for milestone birthdays.
How many pages does it contain?
The completed book contains approximately 150 pages of date-specific material.
What happens after I request it?
Your request is recorded so this date can be prioritised. We’ll contact you by email when the edition is ready to order.