This desk diary commemorates the significant events and comedic moments of 1997, as filtered through the lens of the popular television news-quiz, Have I Got News for You. The diary is structured week-to-view, with each spread highlighting historical anniversaries such as 'Squidgygate' and 'Mad Cow Week'. Facing these factual markers are jokes and commentary directly inspired by the satirical style and recurring segments of the television program, offering a humorous retrospective of the year.

The diary is presented as a humorous and topical reference for the year 1997, leveraging the established comedic format of the 'Have I Got News for You' television program. The content focuses on historical anniversaries paired with show-specific jokes, suggesting an appeal to fans of the show and those interested in a lighthearted look back at the year's events. The structure as a desk diary implies a practical, daily engagement with the material. The inferred reception is that of a niche, comedic reference book.