"Tim and Tom: An American Comedy in Black and White," which is in stores now, is being billed by representatives as both a "show-business memoir and a look at race relations in the United States through the lens of popular culture."

In the book, the men recall how even though their act was enjoyed by diverse audiences, mainstream acceptance eluded them and they were at times subjected to racist heckling, threats and physical violence.

The tension caused the team to end their partnership after five years. Reid went on to play Venus Flytrap on the TV comedy "WKRP in Cincinnati" from 1978 to 1982. He also became a director and producer with his own production studio in Virginia.

Dreesen is now a stand-up comedian who has appeared scores of times on "The Tonight Show" and "Late Show with David Letterman." He was also Frank Sinatra's opening act for the last 14 years of the singer's career.