History and defining moments
Stories and turning points associated with August 17th, placed together in an enjoyable journey through time.
A gift made for their exact birthday
The Birthday Book: August 17th
August 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 August 17th edition
The story of one date, seen from every angle
This edition is researched and written specifically for August 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 August 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 August 17th
A small taste of the people, discoveries and defining moments connected to this exact day across history.
- 1668
An earthquake struck the North Anatolia region, killing over 8,000 people.
Read the source - 1876
The premiere of Götterdämmerung by Richard Wagner closed the first Bayreuth Festival.
Read the source - 1914
World War I: Ignoring orders to retreat, Hermann von François led a successful counterattack defending East Prussia at the Battle of Stallupönen and scored the first German victory in the Eastern Front.
Read the source - 1943
World War II: The Royal Air Force began a strategic bombing campaign against Nazi Germany's V-weapon programme by attacking the Peenemünde Army Research Center.
Read the source - 1863
Gene Stratton-Porter was born on this date.
Read the source
Historical selections adapted from Wikipedia's Selected Anniversaries pages under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence.
Questions about this edition
August 17th Birthday Book FAQs
Is the entire book about August 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.